These things returned after a good cleaning...I'm wondering what they are and what I can do to rid them. They are snow white in color...but terrible to look at. Not to mention how the one fish (Beta) feels sharing his tank. What can I do? Thanks.
2007-09-26 06:09:38 · 7 answers · asked by campingDJ 2 in Pets ➔ Fish
If these are large enough to see, they're not parasites (the only "worm" that is a parasite that would get that large is camallanus, and that's red).
These are probably a type of nematode or insect larvae. If a nematode, the will move with a quivering sort of motion. If an insect, these are probably the larval stage of midges, which are a type of small fly that lays eggs in the water like a mosquito (which also explains how they get into your tank after cleaning). These move by thrashing back and forth so their bodies form an "S" shape. They also have a definite head if you would look at them under a microscope.
Nematodes are normal to have in a tank, less so for the midges (but this will depend on the presence of adults in your area. If you have a lot of either of them, it may indicate that you have too much organic wastes in the tank - they need to have something to eat. If these are midges, the only way to make sure they don't come back is to use netting over the tank and filter to be sure the adults can't lay their eggs in your tank. (On the positive side, if they're midges, your betta will probably eat them - red midge larvae are what are sold as bloodworms, so you have a free supply!)
Planaria, on the other hand only move by gliding across the glass or gravel sort of like a snail, but without the shell.
2007-09-26 17:33:43 · answer #1 · answered by copperhead 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
No fish, different than the Betta can stay in a 5 gallon tank. Neon Tetra- No, too energetic, won't save as small continuously, training fish that desire massive faculties. 15-20 gallons no much less. Goldfish- 20-seventy 5 gallons looking on type, and how many of you have. extremely messy, and desire over filtered tanks. Male Guppies- could be in a ratio of three ladies to each guy or woman male to steer away from aggression, will could be stored in first value sized communities, (they are going to reproduce like loopy). 10 gallons. Zebra Danios- gets to be 2in, are additionally energetic, and have have been given to stored in companies of 6+ to steer away from aggression. 10 gallons. What which you will have: a desirable planted snail tank- now no longer too energetic, even nonetheless you will get some captivating colourful snails A effectively planted shrimp tank- supplies extra action than the snail tank, additionally they're available in some colorings, project-free to maintain, and shrimp are undoubtedly especially stunning :) A male betta or female betta (which you do no longer desire).
2016-10-20 01:15:34 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
You definitely need a good filter for your 5 gallon, like others said. It will go a long way and keep the water quality top notch and prevent future parasite problems.
That being said, check with your local fish store PRONTO about anti-parasite medication. I know it may sound gross, but you may even want to try catching one of those boogers to show to the store. Try such products as Parasite Clear.
And I'll say it again, you need a good filter for your 5 gallon. They only cost about 15 bucks and will make a WORLD of difference. They will filter the water and oxygenate it as well and maintain a good cycle. Google for "aquarium cycle" and you'll find out why having the beneficial bacteria is so important.
2007-09-26 10:04:49 · answer #3 · answered by fishbone 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Sounds like flat worms. Probably planaria. They come about from poor filtration, overfeeding, and waste build up. They feed on decomposing matter in your tank. Eliminate the waste problem and you'll eliminate the worm problem.
2007-09-26 09:27:31 · answer #4 · answered by Quiet Tempest 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you cleaned the tank with bleach your fish is probably already dead so its a moot point
2007-09-26 08:59:44 · answer #5 · answered by Chris H 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋
this is tapeworm. your beta actually has them inside it, and will need a type of anti-parasital medication to kill the worm. when your fish deficates, the worms come out and reproduce inside the fish. take the fish to the vet.
2007-09-26 06:14:56 · answer #6 · answered by Malina 7 · 0⤊ 2⤋
Contact your local fish store and inquire.
2007-09-26 06:14:02 · answer #7 · answered by waterfan09 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋