Parasites in my tank?

Question

Today i noticed that in my 2.5 gallon tank that i have some parasites, they are small less the 1/8th of an inch long, very thin and white in color. The only fish i have in the tank is a 2 inch pleco. They dont seem to be affecting him.

I am wondering what they are, and where they could have came from.

Answer 1

This sounds like any one of 3-4 different mico-worms / fly larvae, none of which would be harmful to the fish. Most likely a type of fly or gnat larvae from eggs laid on the side of the tank. There are very few fish parasites of that size and none come to mind that would be free swimming at that size range. If they were parasites, your fish would be covered in them and in very poor health by the time they became that thick in the tank.

I would get the pleco out of a 2.5 gallon as soon as possible, he will out grow it in no time at all.

Washing out the tank after you move the pleco and before you add other fish should take care of it.

Answer 2

It's most likely either planaria or nematodes. They usually are brought into a tank by plants and such, or if you dumped the water from the fish bag into your tank when you bought it(big no no). They usually show up when fish are overfed, or too much food is lying on the bottom. First I'd get a bigger tank for the pleco, depending on the type, common plecos get almost 2 feet long. Do frequent water changes, and vac the gravel area real good.


http://www.oscarfish.com/cms_view_article.php?aid=15

http://www.petfish.net/articles/Aquarium_Basics/bug-worm.php

Answer 3

i think it planaria a worm that eats any uneaten food that is completely harmless, its usaslly cause by a build up of uneaten food. they do not harm fish but eat uneaten food. Do they climb on the walls of the tank? then its probably planaria. they live in the gravel. they are no real threat, but if you want to kill them feed your fish less or buy a uv sterilzer. they really completely harmless.