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C is for Christmas Tree Worm
 The lovely flower-like Christmas tree worm ranges throughout Florida, the
Caribbean, and the Gulf of Mexico. Growing up to four inches, the round conical worm does resemble a Christmas tree, or many times a pair of Christmas trees. These worms live in a calciferous
tube which shelters their whole body. The tube is attached to either live or dead coral. Christmas tree worms come in a variety of colors: yellows, pinks, reds, blues, whites,
grays, and browns; the colors appearing in the feathery gills that extend outward. These gills are covered in a sticky mucus,
and when nutritious food gets stuck on them, it can then be funneled down the spirals to the worm's mouth. The gills also act as a breathing mechanism for the worms.
With so many varieties and colors, these tiny critters provide photographers with a multitude of macro photo moments. It can be quite a challenge to photograph these little animals, because they
are very sensitive to movement in the water, and are quick to withdraw into their tubes. But just wait a moment, very still, and they will come inching back out again. They are quite fascinating and they
can keep a diver occupied a long while studying them. Enjoy them on your next visit to the reef.
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