The Indian Feather Duster Worm is native to tropical reefs of the Indian Ocean and Red Sea but has spread to other areas of the western Pacific. Its feathery crown is typically reddish brown with purple specks and white tips. The worm grows to 8cm long. The Magnificent Feather Duster, S. magnifica, native to the eastern Pacific and western Atlantic, looks similar.

Feather Duster Worms are marine worms that construct an upright tube of sand and grit to proctect their soft body. Their feathery crown, which can be quite elaborate, catches food particles and construction materials.

Reproduction can be by fragmentation or by sexual means. Damaged body parts can be regenerated. Those above may be the Social Feather Duster, Bispira brunnea, of the Caribbean.