DistributionRange:
BES-eilanden: Sint Eustatius.
Author:
[Marion Haarsma, apr. 2015]: [Floris Bennema, may 2016]
Literature:
- Humann, P.,& DeLoach, N. (2013). Reef Creature
Identification: Florida, Caribbean,
Bahamas (p 308). Third edition. Jacksonville (FL): New World Publications.
- Interactive Guide to Caribbean Diving. M. De Kluijver, G. Gijswijt, R. de Leon & I. daCunda.
- Bearded fireworm. Wikipedia.
Summary:
Saltwater. Fireworms. Bearded fireworms are usually between 5–10
centimetres (1.9–3.9 in) in length, but can reach up to 35 centimetres
(13.8 in). They have a group of venomous white bristles on each side,
which are flared out when the worm is disturbed.
ToBeConfusedWith:
- Orange
Fireworm Eurythoe complanata.
- Blackline fireworm Chloeia viridis.
Bearded fireworm may
be identified by beardlike appendages on the head.
Characteristics:
Size: 10 to 15 cm, max 25 cm.
Colour: The body is greenish, and the gills orange-red, white tufts of bristles along the sides.
Shape: In cross section, the body of this large worm is squarish. A large, branched beard-like structure (caruncle) on the surface of the head.
HabitatEnvironmentAndEcology:
Inhabits coral
reefs. It lives under stones or other loose material or in recesses, on
and around the reefs or grass beds. Depth: ranges from 0 m down to 40 m.