(Very) tiny white worms

[Wyld-Fyre]

For the first time, I've decided to give my fishes some peace (ie not keeping them distracted by my antics), and so covered the viewing side of the tank. Now and then, I have sneak at them from the slits. This was then I had noticed tiny (and I do mean tiny) <1mm long worms slowly gliding over the surface of the glass. In shock, I quickly decided to scan the wider area of this 'offending' worm. I found two others over an area of approximately two square inches.

Not that many worms you might say, but I'm still worried. None of the fishes appear to be affected, yet, by these 'new' tank buddies. Are these worms natural to a healthy tank environment, ie detritus-eating or flesh-eaters?

I've heard planarians (flatworms) are larger and are parasitic. Here's hoping someone knows what these little buggers are

 

[ger87410]

It sounds like planaria to me. Unless you got fish I think all planaria is harmless. Water changes and removing excess food/fedding less is the remedy. They exist cuz there's too much excess food around. Planaria do hurt fry though.

 

[Wyld-Fyre]

I've read from a 'scientific' site, can't remember which, that panaria worms can grow to about 1.5'' in length and are meat eaters, if given the opportunity. If these Planaria are harmless, and I hope they are, can they become parasitic if there isn't enough food around?

 

[ger87410]

I doubt it. That's the recommended treatment everywhere I've read.

 

[Synastic]

Once, when I got my driftwood I saw those same little worms in my tank. I dunno what they were, but did a water change and never saw them again.

 

[Wyld-Fyre]

In addition to your water change, did you change any other factors eg medication, cranked up the heat, or limited the amount of feed?

I am keen to know because I'm close to making a decision on this water change

 

[Synastic]

Nope, I didn't add anything or crank up anything. Just did a simple water change and never saw thoses worms again. Keep us posted