Can you have a pet bobbit worm?

Answered by Tom Adger

I can give you a detailed answer to the question: Can you have a pet bobbit worm?

Well, I can tell you from personal experience that it is possible to keep a bobbit worm as a pet. Many years ago, my local fish store (LFS) actually had one on display in a 10-gallon tank. Now, you might think that a 10-gallon tank is too small for such a large creature, but surprisingly, bobbit worms don’t require as much room as you might think.

One important thing to note is that bobbit worms are primarily burrowers, so providing them with plenty of rock or substrate that they can hide in is essential. This not only allows them to feel secure but also mimics their natural habitat, as they are typically found in sandy or muddy substrates in the wild.

In terms of feeding, bobbit worms are carnivorous and will eat almost anything meaty. They are known to be voracious predators, capable of capturing and devouring small fish and invertebrates. So, when keeping a bobbit worm as a pet, you’ll need to provide it with a varied diet of live or frozen meaty foods. This could include small fish, shrimp, or even pieces of squid.

Now, one thing to consider is that bobbit worms prefer low light conditions. They are naturally nocturnal creatures, so they are more active and visible during the night. Even during the day, they tend to hide in their burrows or within the rocks, making it a bit challenging to view them. So, if you’re hoping to observe your bobbit worm frequently, you might want to set up some dim lighting in the tank to mimic their preferred environment.

While bobbit worms can be kept as pets, they do require some specific care considerations. Providing them with plenty of hiding spots, a varied meaty diet, and the right lighting conditions can contribute to their well-being. Just keep in mind that they are primarily nocturnal and may be less visible during the day.