Cluster Duster (Bispira variegata) Care Guide
Bispira variegata is a small Caribbean sabellid worm that forms dense clusters of banded radiole crowns and filters plankton.
Overview
Bispira variegata is a small sabellid feather duster worm that forms dense clusters of individuals, each extending a banded radiole crown. It is a peaceful filter feeder that adds movement and water-column filtration to a reef. The crown retracts rapidly into the tube when disturbed.
Taxonomy
- Phylum: Annelida
- Class: Polychaeta
- Order: Sabellida
- Family: Sabellidae
- Scientific name: Bispira variegata
- Note: WoRMS treats Bispira variegata (Krøyer, 1856) as a synonym of Bispira melanostigma (Schmarda, 1861)
Habitat
According to reefguide.org the worm occurs in the Caribbean, Bahamas and Florida at depths of about 6-23 m (20-75 ft), where it forms colonies of sediment tubes on reefs and hard substrate.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 60 L
- Temperature: 24-26 °C (75-79 °F)
- pH: 8.1-8.4
- Salinity: 1.024-1.026 SG
- dKH: 8-11
- Adult size: 2-5 cm; reefguide.org reports about 1.8-3.8 cm (0.75-1.5 in)
- Lifespan: 2-5 years
Diet
It is a suspension feeder, capturing fine plankton and organic particles with its radiole crown. In aquariums it relies on plankton-rich water and benefits from frequent dosing of phytoplankton and fine particulate foods.
Compatibility
Peaceful and reef-safe with other invertebrates and peaceful fish. Avoid hawkfish and arrow crabs, which may pick at the crowns. Place clusters low in the tank where suspended food is more concentrated.