what type of worm good or bad?

Question

worm   We found a clear worm like creature in our reef tank the other day at first it was crawling on the glass but since it has found a rock it likes and just hangs out on it , it is a clear worm that is about 1 inch long , no legs or anything , on its head it has tentacles about five or six that open up like on the head of a sea cucumber and they fan one at a time bringing in food to there mouth , we can see inside the body and you can see a trail of white crap inside it, we are wondering what this is and if this is good or bad?

Answer
Hi,

The picture is a little blurred, however from what you have described, it sounds like a harmless species of worm, that would fall in the detrivores family of worms. These worms live in a rock crevice and use their crown to catch particles from the water. There are many species of these worms, some have not been classified as of yet. I don't think you have anything to worry about, rather than a welcomed guest.

A species of warm to be careful of while reaching in various areas of your aquarium, when doing maintenance, would be the bristle worm; they are harmless for the most part, however don't touch them, because they can inflict a nasty sting. You'll quickly recognize a bristle worm by the many bristles it has lined throughout its body. They are often orange and brown in coloration.

I will include some valuable links, with helpful information, including various species of worms and other hitchhikers:

http://www.worldwidereefers.com/forums/showthread.php?4768-Hitchhiker-id-guide

http://www.wetwebmedia.com/wormidfaq9.htm

http://www.chucksaddiction.com/hitchworms.html

http://www.ocreef.com/education_center

I wish you the best of luck with all your saltwater aquarium endeavors.

Sincerely,
David