Worms In My Tank...?

[thisguyek]

I did a normal routine water change today in my 10gal which contains 2 three spot gouramis. after i refilled the tank i watched it for a while and noticed a bunch of tiny white worm like things floating around. i havent noticed it before. I could see them swimming around. The two fish seemed to be making quick snacks of them. just wondering what they could be, where they came from, and the level of concern i should have.

thanks!

 

[KittyKat]

Probably planaria.

I will also warn you now that your aquarium is not big enough for that species in the long term because of their adult size and not big enough for two fish of that species because they are moderately aggressive and territorial, especially the males. I expect the result of keeping them in tanks that size to be stunted and poor growth, and fighting.

 

[thisguyek]

yup. I realize this. its only temporary. They will eventually be moving into a 55gal. Im almost positive I have two females, which should minimize the aggression, right?

as far as the planaria... should i be worried? I dont over feed... if anything its a tad bit under feeding... more frequent water changes possibly? usually do weekly to biweekly.

 

[colleen0309]

Do you vaccume the gravel when you do a water change? If not, give that a try to remove them. If it is planaria, they are harmless, but could be a symptom of poor water quality. In the meantime, enjoy the free live food!

 

[KittyKat]

How much exactly do you feed? And feeding regime?

 

[CrazyCichlaMomma]

planaria are the result of over feeding, they are harmless to your fish. back off your feeding schedule. actually don't feed them for a few days, they won't die. more fish die of over feeding in home aquaria than from any other cause.

do a 50% water change and gravel vac and then go back to feeding them half of what you currently are in a few days and the planaria will probably disappear. if they don't then you are still feeding too much and cut it in half again.

 

[thisguyek]

yes i do vacuum the gravel. change somewhere around 30% of the water every week to week and a half. I feed tetramin tropical crisps and color plus flakes once a day, 4-5 times a week, with a treat of frozen blood worms once a week. Usually a pinch of food per serving. I have a hard time believing that its overfeeding, and i test my water regularly with no abnormalities.

I heard from a few different people that this seems to be a common problem with the tetra foods. they seem to notice it more with that brand.

As long as its not posing a threat, Ill let it be. Ill hold off on the food for a few days and see where im at.

 

[KittyKat]

How long do they take to finish the food? Pinches vary in size I feed a pinch to some 40-50 odd fish in my main display tank! At any rate, the fish should be completely finishing every piece of food within 30-60 seconds.