Description
Red Fan Worm (Protula bispiralis)
(Also known as the Red Tube Worm or Double-Spiral Fan Worm)
Overview
The Red Fan Worm (Protula bispiralis) is a beautiful and delicate tube-dwelling polychaete worm known for its bright red, orange, or pink spiral feeding crowns that extend from a hard, calcareous tube. These elegant filter feeders bring natural movement and colour to reef aquariums. Typically reaching 5–7 cm (2–3 inches) in crown diameter and up to 10 cm (4 inches) in total length, Protula bispiralis is peaceful, reef safe, and thrives in mature aquariums with stable water quality and regular plankton feeding.
Origin
Native to the Indo-Pacific region, including the Red Sea, East Africa, Indonesia, Fiji, and the Great Barrier Reef. Found in shallow reef slopes, rocky crevices, and coral rubble zones, often attached to hard substrates where gentle currents deliver suspended food.
Feeding
The Red Fan Worm is a suspension feeder, relying on its feather-like radioles to capture microscopic food from the water. In aquariums, it must be regularly fed with fine planktonic foods:
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Live or concentrated phytoplankton (essential)
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Zooplankton and marine snow
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Fine powdered coral or invertebrate foods (e.g. Reef-Roids, Reef Phyto)
Feed 3–5 times per week, ideally using a target feeding method near the worm’s crown when extended. Consistent feeding supports growth and prevents starvation.
Water Flow
Low to moderate, indirect flow. Ensure enough current to carry suspended food without disturbing or collapsing the worm’s feeding crown. Too much direct flow may cause it to retract frequently and expend unnecessary energy.
Lighting
Low to moderate lighting. The Red Fan Worm is non-photosynthetic and does not require strong lighting. It often prefers shaded or partially lit areas such as under rock ledges or coral overhangs.
Placement
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Place securely in rock crevices or sand gaps where it can attach its calcareous tube.
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Avoid moving it once settled — damage to the tube or disturbance can cause the worm to abandon its home.
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Ensure stable surroundings with gentle flow and regular feeding access.
Tank Mates
Completely peaceful. Suitable for all reef-safe fish and invertebrates. Ideal companions include:
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Clownfish, gobies, blennies, and firefish
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Cleaner shrimp, hermit crabs, and snails
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Corals of all types (soft, LPS, SPS)
Avoid:
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Predatory fish such as butterflyfish, large wrasses, puffers, or triggers that may nip at the feeding crown.
Aggression
Non-aggressive. Will not harm any tank mates. However, it may retract if startled, and excessive harassment can cause it to starve or abandon its tube.
Experience Level
Intermediate to advanced. While hardy under stable conditions, Protula bispiralis requires regular feeding and a mature, well-established reef aquarium to thrive long-term. Sensitive to parameter swings and rough handling.
Water Parameters
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Temperature: 24–27°C (75–81°F)
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pH: 8.1–8.4
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Salinity: 1.024–1.026 SG
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Hardness (dKH): 8–12
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Calcium: 400–450 ppm (important for tube growth)
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Tank Size: Minimum 50 gallons (190L) with stable, mature water chemistry
Regular water changes and controlled nutrient levels support longevity and healthy plume extension.
Reef Compatibility
Fully reef safe. The Red Fan Worm coexists peacefully with all corals and invertebrates, adding colour and natural plankton filtration to the reef environment. Ideal for mixed reef systems that are routinely fed with phytoplankton or micro foods.
