Feather duster suicide?

[tristan65]

I bought a feather duster a week ago. Everything seemed fine for the first few days -- the feathers were out of the tube quite often. Two days ago, I noticed that the feathers were at the bottom of the tank, between two rocks. I was wondering if the worm had jumped out of its shell, been attacked, or had decided to relocate to a safer location... This morning, when I moved the rocks to check it out, I found only the feathers. The worm is still in the tube.

Is it dead? How did this happen? Should I leave the tube there to see if the worm with regrow some feathers?

I've had the tank only 1.5 month but water quality seems fine (I test regularly).

Thanks!

 

[fergieturk]

They can drop their feathers if they are stressed. They also regrow them under better circumstances. Probably the best thing you can do is just let it be - if you mess with it, most likely that will cause more stress.

 

[cal91666]

I've noticed this post and another post about your clown. Please give us the specifics on your water tests. Sounds like you may have something going on.

 

[tristan65]

I tested the water today to make sure I'd give you recent figures: Sal: 1.0235, 77.5 F, pH 8.2, Nitrite: less than .15 (lowest my test tube will show), Nitrate: less than 10 (lowest my test tube will show), Ammonia: 0.

 

[Hara]

I think the water is a little on the cool side.

 

[tristan65]

I keep reading that it should optimally be between 74 and 80 so I keep it on the upper range at 78 or 79. Isn't that correct?

 

[michealprater]

I run all my tanks 82 to 84 degrees.

 

[d9hp]

Mine is right above 80 and i think I could go either way

 

[reefrunner69]

What are Natural Reef Salinities and Temperatures--Really--and Does It Matter?

 

[d9hp]

That is a cool site Kevin