Sludge Worm
Indicator
Background and Characteristics
The sludge worm is typically red in color and commonly found near sewage outlets. They are an indicator of water pollution. Sludge worms are collected and sold as tropical fish food and play an important role in overturning bottom sediment in the ocean.
Role as an Indicator Species
Sludge worms indicate oxygen-poor and stagnant water because that is the habitat where they thrive. The presence of a sludge worm indicates that the surrounding water is unfit to drink.
Works Cited
"Sludge Worm." Encyclopedia Britannica Online. Encyclopedia Britannica, n.d. Web. 02 Oct. 2013. <http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/549209/sludge-worm>.
FINMOOD FISH FORUM. N.d. Photograph. Web. 02 Oct. 2013. <http://www.finmood.com/forum/viewtopic.php?p=18244>.