Any ideas on how to get rid of flat worms in a reef tank?

Question

I recently found out I have flat worms.I assumed it was a type of algae because it's everywhere.I heard a six lined wrasse will help.Any more suggestions?

Answer 1

See this website: http://www.wetwebmedia.com/flatworms.htm

Six-lined wrasse is listed as one of the predators, along with canary and pin-stripe wrasse. The peppermint shrimp would probably be the least expensive, although I can't say how well these work against flatworms. They will rid a tank of Aiptasia (nuisance stinging anemone) pretty quickly and will breed in the tank if there's more than one.

Flatworms are food-specific, so once whatever they're eating is depleted, their population will crash.

Answer 2

I like the six line wrasse. Not only will they help for flatworms but they are very nice looking fish and very compatable in a reef tank. Peppermint shrimp will also get rid of these. They are also a great addition to a reef tank. I've never had an issue with flatworms with either of these guys in a tank.

Answer 3

I read a couple sites and along with the six lined wrasse it was also suggested to not feed your fish for a couple of days. "To free the tank of these worms simply do not feed your fish for 3-4 days as they will often feed on them. Also lower the excess nutrients in the tank to quickly solve the problem."

here are some threads from others who have had the same problem and what they did to try to get rid of them.. you might want to check it out.. hope it helps..

http://www.thereeftank.com/forums/showthread.php?t=322

and

http://www.utahreefs.com/forum/printer_friendly_posts.asp?TID=549

Answer 4

Eat them.