Beachcombers Field Guide - Department Of Fisheries Western ...

Tube worm
Annelida – Polychaete
This twisted mass of calcium
carbonate (limestone) found washed up
on the beach was once home for a tube
worm. The worm builds the limestone
tube for protection against predators. If
threatened or disturbed they will retract
into the tube, closing their trap door or
operculum behind them.
Did you know?
When alive, a tube worm
has elaborate tentacles to
fi lter the water for oxygen and
food, such as plankton and
other organic matter.