What in the world is this mess of purple and red? These giant living masses are colonies of Northern Feather Duster Worms, Eudistylia vancouveri. These worms are members of one of the largest groups of marine worms called the Polychaetes.
The Feather Duster Worm will partly emerge to feed on small planktonic plants and animals using a large (up to 2 inches) plume shaped feeding devise that reminded early marine biologists of a feather duster. Detecting motion using small but sensitive eye spots, the Feather Duster Worm will instantly pull its plume back into its tube at the slightest hint of danger, however the withdrawn tentacles lack a trap door to seal the tube. The flexible, leathery, parchment-like tubes are attached to hard surfaces and can extend for a foot or more. The tubes often intertwine forming a refuge for other marine animals. .
Besides rocky intertidal and sub-tidal areas, the Feather Duster Worm can be found on marine docks and pilings. Large clumps of these worms are famously found in British Columbia near Vancouver Island, some the largest groupings have up to a thousand individual worm making up on clump. This species ranges from Alaska to central California.
Remember that all marine life has a bubble and getting close enough to these worms before they suck back into their tubes can be quite a challenge. Take it slow and be patient. These guys live and thrive in high current areas so please go with a experienced guide if your looking to photograph these animals.
Happy snapping!
Scott
For more images and adventures - http://www.scottstevensonphotography.ca/