Mediterranean Fanworm

Photo: Marleen Schouten · CC BY-NC

Dense aggregations of fanworms extend their feathery purple and white radioles from crevices across the boulder field at the cape's base, filter feeding in the current-swept water. They retract explosively when approached, but in undisturbed conditions create a living tapestry across the rock surface. Their tubes provide microhabitat for tiny crustaceans and worms that in turn attract fish grazers.