Worm critters with web like feeding nets?

[SaltyDog2]

I have these tubes (1 to 2 inch long) growing on the rocks that have some kind of worm in them that sends out a web like feeding net, does anyone know what they are and how to get rid of them...they cause some sps corals to not extend their tenticals. Some Pocillipora sections have actually died near them! Thanks for the help.

 

[Darthv247]

just cut the tube off and put a rock over it.

 

[returnofsid]

They're actually a snail. Vermatid snails are beneficial filter feeders, though sometime, their nets can cause irritation to corals. You can snap the tubes off, but be careful as they're sharp and can cut you.

 

[SaltyDog2]

Now that you mention that, Michael, I do remember reading an article about snails that build tubes. I have quite a few of them and they seem to build in hard to reach places. Darthv, I will try the rock on top approach if I can get one on a flat surface. Some of the tubes have sps bases encrusted over them so I don't think I can cut them short enough to get the snail. Maybe I'll superglue the tube shut. That sounds mean, doesn't it.

 

[returnofsid]

LOL While it does sound mean, it will work!