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Protula magnifica
Also referred to as Protula bispiralis, and also known as Coco Worm and Magnificent Feather Duster Worm. P. magnifica is a sessile invertebrate that anchors its tail to the substrate or coral head and secretes a mineral tube around its body. It can withdraw into this tube when threatened. Its feather-like gills are arranged in a double spiral (colors vary). Tube worms are filter feeders and feed on zooplankton.
Found embedded in hard coral heads, or on sandy bottoms. Distribution: from the Red Sea to the Indo-Pacific.
This truly magnificent-looking tube worm was ensconced in a lobed cactus coral (Lobophyllia flabelliformis) at a depth of about 15m. Spotted this at a dive site called San Juan Reef, off the western coast of Samal Island in the Philippines, but I see them everywhere I dive in the Davao Gulf.
12 Comments
Must have been an incredible sight to see this in person! Absolutely beautiful!
Thanks, Luis and Harsha!
Yeah, I thought of Avatar too when I was shooting the video. I'm sure the movie writers were inspired by tube worms! :)
Really magnificent! Love that video.
I watched the video, it looks it came from the movie Avatar. Also, I'm impressed by the water clarity.
Thank you for the compliment,, nexttogone! :")
I'm in awe over this shot!
Yup, it's very pretty! Thanks guys!
Pretty...
Is it called "Magnificent" tube worm? Magnificent! =) =)
Wow! Fascinating!!
It sure is, Luis! Watch out for the video -- uploading to Youtube now.
Another beauty from the sea.