These worms ingest sediments, selectively digest bacteria, and absorb molecules through their body walls.

Micro-plastic ingestion by Tubifex worms acts as a significant risk for trophic transfer and biomagnification of microplastics up the aquatic food chain.

They can also survive in areas heavily polluted with organic matter that almost no other species can endure.

By forming a protective cyst and lowering its metabolic rate, T. tubifex can survive drought and food shortage.

They usually inhabit the bottom sediments of lakes, rivers, and occasionally sewer lines and outlets.