Ribbon Worm

Ribbon Worm

Tubulanus sexlineatus

Physical Description

The Ribbon Worm features a long, thin body that can reach lengths of up to 20 cm. Its dorsal surface is characterized by dark brown coloration with five narrow longitudinal white stripes, which are interrupted by broad white bands encircling the body.

Habitat

This species is relatively uncommon and is often found stretched out across rock surfaces. However, it primarily resides within transparent membranous tubes secreted in cryptic microhabitats, such as kelp holdfasts and spatially complex masses of colonial invertebrates.

Geographical Range

The Ribbon Worm inhabits waters from Sitka, Alaska, to southern California.

Diet

As a carnivorous species, the Ribbon Worm feeds on small invertebrates and organic matter present in its habitat.