Feather duster worms are popular reef inverts. Common species: Sabellastarte spp. (giant 3-inch fan), Bispira spp. (color-banded radioles), coco worms (Protula bispiralis - more rare, expensive). Reef-safe: yes, they filter-feed on phytoplankton + bacteria. Don't bother corals or fish. Habitat: rockwork or in sand, embedded in their parchment tube. Retract instantly into the tube when shadow passes. Care: require established tank (6+ months), low-medium flow, filter feed by extending radiole crown. Phyto dosing optional but speeds growth. Avoid with: coral-banded shrimp (eat them), peppermint shrimp (sometimes nip), some butterflies + angels. Lifespan: 5-10 years in stable systems. Notes: if a feather duster sheds its crown, it usually regrows in 2-4 weeks - sign of stress not death.
Reviewed by the Fast Aquatics husbandry team · Updated May 2026
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