European fanworm (Spirobranchus triqueter)
Key facts
- Scientific name
- Spirobranchus triqueter
- Common name
- European fanworm
- Category
- Worms
- Family
- Serpulidae
- Genus
- Spirobranchus
- Size
- 1–4 cm
- Depth
- 0–35 m
- IUCN status
- Least concern (LC)
- Danger level
- Harmless
- Habitats
- rocky-reef
- Behaviours
- sessile, filter-feeder
- Ocean zones
- East Atlantic, Mediterranean
Description
Spirobranchus triqueter reaches 4 cm deployed crown. Small tubeworm (Polychaeta, Sabellidae) Mediterranean and temperate East Atlantic. White calcareous tube fixed on rocks, two highly colored spiral branchial crowns (blue, white, red, orange, yellow depending on individuals) deployed for respiration and plankton capture. Lightning crown retraction into tube at slightest movement (vibrations, diver shadow). Lives from 0 to 35 m on coastal hard substrates. Cousin of tropical Spirobranchus giganteus (Christmas tree worm). Emblematic macro photo subject of Med dives.
Photo of European fanworm
Frequently asked questions
- How big is the European fanworm?
- European fanworm (Spirobranchus triqueter) reaches 1–4 cm in length.
- At what depth can you find the European fanworm?
- European fanworm is found between 0–35 m deep.
- Is the European fanworm dangerous to divers?
- Danger level: Harmless.
- What is the conservation status of the European fanworm?
- IUCN status: Least concern (LC).
- Where can you find the European fanworm?
- Found in: East Atlantic, Mediterranean.
Other species in the genus Spirobranchus
Other species in the family Serpulidae
- Filograna implexa - Filigree tubeworm
- Protula tubularia - Pink fanworm
- Salmacina dysteri - Cluster tubeworm
- Serpula vermicularis - Calcareous tubeworm
Sources
- Taxonomy: WoRMS (AphiaID 555935)
- Photos: iNaturalist (CC BY-NC)
- Distribution: GBIF (taxonKey 5959026)
- Conservation: IUCN Red List
- Encyclopedia: Wikipedia