Need ID on little red, blue, and pink maggot looking things.

[StephenInVa]

I turned my 30 gallons light back on a few minutes after the actinics went out to show a friend the tank really quick and found these things out and about. Haven't seen them before and was wondering if anyone could help with an ID. Checked my 75 gallon and 90 gallon tank and the 75 has them also. Didn't see any in the 90. They look like little maggots. I searched a bit for an ID and the only thing I could find similar was a pic of a fire worm. Not a 100% match though.

http://i250.photobucket.com/albums/gg241/StepheninVa/unknown01.jpg


http://i250.photobucket.com/albums/gg241/StepheninVa/unknown02.jpg

[LeslieH]

Those are polychaetes most likely in the family Syllidae. They're epitokes - a special modified form that occurs when the worms become sexually mature. In this case the posterior portion of the worm has transformed into a delivery system complete with big eyes, packed full of eggs or sperm, and special setae (= bristles) for swimming. Males & females swim up into the water to spawn. Once the gametes are ejected the individual dies.

[StephenInVa]

Thanks! Are they harmful?

[LeslieH]

Not in the least.

[StephenInVa]

Thank you Leslie for your help.