Rare Huge Red and Gold Crown Coco Worm

Rare Huge Red and Gold Crown Coco Worm (Protula sp.) Care Guide
The Red and Gold Crown Coco Worm is a striking and highly sought-after species of feather duster worm known for its large size, vibrant red-and-gold spiral crown, and delicate feeding plumes. This species adds beauty and movement to reef tanks but requires specific care and a stable environment to thrive.

Habitat & Behavior
Native to tropical coral reefs, commonly found in the Indo-Pacific region.
Sessile (does not move)—builds a calcium carbonate tube to protect itself.
Extends its feathery crown (radioles) to filter-feed on plankton and organic particles.
If threatened, it quickly retracts into its tube for protection.
Aquarium Requirements
Tank Size: 30+ gallons (for stable water conditions).
Water Flow: Moderate to strong flow (helps with filter-feeding).
Lighting: Moderate to high (indirect light is best; avoid direct high-intensity light).
Substrate: Prefers attachment to live rock or sandy substrate.
Water Parameters
Temperature: 74-80°F
Salinity: 1.024-1.026
pH: 8.1-8.4
Calcium: 400-450 ppm (essential for tube-building)
Alkalinity: 8-12 dKH
Magnesium: 1250-1350 ppm
Diet & Feeding
Strict filter feeder—requires a constant supply of microscopic food.
Feed phytoplankton, zooplankton, and liquid coral foods (e.g., Reef Roids, Brightwell PhytoGold).
Target feeding recommended: Use a pipette or turkey baster to gently release food near its crown.
Feed 3-5 times per week for optimal health.
Tank Mates & Compatibility
Reef-safe and does well in mature, stable reef tanks.
Avoid aggressive fish (e.g., triggers, puffers, large wrasses) that may nip at the worm’s delicate crown.
Safe with corals, shrimp, and peaceful reef fish like clownfish, gobies, and tangs.
Be cautious with crabs and some shrimp species—they may disturb the worm’s tube.
Acclimation Process
Turn off tank lights to minimize stress.
Float the sealed bag in the tank for 15-20 minutes to equalize temperature.
Drip acclimate slowly over 45-60 minutes to adjust to water chemistry.
Gently place the Coco Worm in the tank, avoiding rough handling to prevent damage to its tube.
Position in an area with moderate water flow and indirect lighting.
Special Considerations
? Sensitive to sudden changes in water parameters—maintain stability.
? Do not move frequently—stress can cause it to abandon its tube (which is fatal).
? If crown is lost, it may regenerate, but survival is not guaranteed.
? Requires high-quality reef water with minimal nitrates and phosphates.