©David Witherall and Jimmy Coppin-Buckenham: Christmas tree worm (Spirobranchus giganteus), Ocean Freedom, Upolu Reef
Colours
Distinguishing features
Its most distinct feature is the two "crowns" shaped like Christmas trees that protrude from the surface of massive coral colonies. These are highly modified prostomial palps, which are specialized mouth appendages. Each spiral is composed of feather-like tentacles called radioles, which are heavily ciliated and cause any prey trapped in them to be transported to the worm's mouth. While they are primarily feeding structures, they are also used for respiration; hence, the structures commonly are called gills. (Wikipedia)
The gills occur in many different colours.
Size
- Size data has not been obtained.
Synonyms
Comments
Do not use a Christmas tree worm for a Christmas tree. It might be beautiful BUT the branches would have moving hairs on them and your decorations, lights, presents and even small pets walking past would get pulled in at the base, spiral up the tree and disappear in a hole at the top. Not only that, if you scared it, the whole tree would disappear in an instant and perhaps worst of all, a massive worm about the length of a bus would be living under your house.
by David Witherall
