Weird orange string

[Gianluca]

I noticed these weird worms? In my tank they eat food if I put it down there. They've recently been popping up all over the tank. What are they? And are they harmful?

 

[WalkerLoves_TheOcean]

Medusa worm?

 

[Gianluca]

Medusa worm?

I think that is definitely possible, it looks similar to when I look up "orange Medusa worm" are they bad? Or just detritivores?

 

[WalkerLoves_TheOcean]

I think that is definitely possible, it looks similar to when I look up "orange Medusa worm" are they bad? Or just detritivores?

I have never had one, but what I have heard is that when they are alive they are fine, but when they die they supposedly release a deadly toxin into the water, which can kill fish, and any other living thing in the tank... That's what I heard at least.

 

[vetteguy53081]

I noticed these weird worms? In my tank they eat food if I put it down there. They've recently been popping up all over the tank. What are they? And are they harmful?

Looks like a spaghetti worm which is reef safe

 

[EeyoreIsMySpiritAnimal]

I think that is definitely possible, it looks similar to when I look up "orange Medusa worm" are they bad? Or just detritivores?

Hair worm. Harmless detritivore.

 

[EeyoreIsMySpiritAnimal]

I have never had one, but what I have heard is that when they are alive they are fine, but when they die they supposedly release a deadly toxin into the water, which can kill fish, and any other living thing in the tank... That's what I heard at least.

Hair worms are sometimes called "medusa worms" but are not the medusas that become toxic.

Some sea cucumbers are also called medusa worms and *can* release toxins but likely not enough to take out the entire tank.

 

[Gianluca]

Hair worms are sometimes called "medusa worms" but are not the medusas that becomes toxic.

Some sea cucumbers are also called medusa worms and *can* release toxins but likely not enough to take out the entire tank.

That's super great to know and very relieving! Thank you!