Red Coco Worm (Protula Bispiralis)

The Red Coco Worm is one of the most beautiful and captivating tube worms available in the marine aquarium trade. Known for its vibrant red, spiral-shaped crown, the Red Coco Worm is a filter-feeder that uses its delicate fan-like appendages to capture plankton and suspended particles from the water column. This worm lives in a hard calcium-based tube it secretes for protection, making it a visually stunning yet delicate addition to mature reef tanks with stable water parameters.

Care Information

• Maximum Size: Crown can extend up to 5 inches in diameter.
• Tank Size: 20 gallons minimum; best in tanks with low to moderate flow to allow feeding without damage to the delicate crown.
• Diet: Filter feeder; primarily consumes plankton and fine organic particles. Regular supplemental feedings of phytoplankton and liquid coral foods are essential for its health.
• Water Temp: 72-78°F.
• Salinity: 1.023-1.025.
• Aggression: Peaceful; non-aggressive and compatible with corals, fish, and other invertebrates.
• Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced; requires stable water conditions and consistent feeding to thrive.
• Reef Compatibility: Reef-safe; does not harm corals or invertebrates and contributes to nutrient removal by filtering organic matter.

Special Feature - Hard Tube Structure
The Red Coco Worm secretes a hard, calcareous tube for protection, making it less susceptible to predation than softer tube worms. Its tube can be secured in the substrate or among rockwork, adding both function and beauty to the tank.

Compatibility
This worm is peaceful and highly compatible with reef tanks, provided there are no aggressive fish or invertebrates that might pick at its delicate crown. Avoid housing with fish like triggers, puffers, or large wrasses.

Coloration

• Indo-Pacific Region: The Red Coco Worm features a stunning red or reddish-pink spiral crown with delicate feather-like appendages that sway gracefully in the water column. Its unique coloration makes it a striking focal point in any aquarium​.

Typical Habitat

• Distribution: Found throughout the Indo-Pacific, typically in coral reef areas with stable water flow where it anchors its tube to rocks or substrate. It thrives in mature aquariums with ample plankton and minimal disturbances​.