Nematodes [white wormies]

[nacho]

So.

My tank had an outbreak (not severe, but a visible number) of tiny, threadlike worms called nematodes. At least, I think they're nematodes.

I hate worms.

But I hate them a little less now.

I was and still am squirmish at the thought of those worms flicking around in the tank, but was delighted to see my betta Darcy hang around the sponge filter and pick at them. I think the worms are a good protein source for him. I hope he does some population control so the worm problem doesn't get out of hand.

[Adastra]

These planarians may be a sign that you are overfeeding, you may try to lower the amount of food you put into the tank, or go through the tank with a turkey baster after feeding to catch any uneaten food.

[nacho]

Darcy eats everything I give him. I feed him 4-5 pellets a day and watch him eat every one. It's not overfeeding, but it may be the bits of plants that weren't picked up by the gravel vac.

[wallywestisthebest333]

Hahaha. Nematodes. The name itself is funny then I end up thinking of that episode of SpongeBob from waaaaay back. XD

Well I'm glad Mr. Darcy is getting his protein in and hey! You get a break from feeding him for a little while and he gets to feel like a wild betta and hunt! =] goodness all around! =]

[JamieTron]

Nematodes are smaller then the worms you are referring to. Planaria they are called if you do want to reduce numbers when you clean your tank just rinse it with super hot water or even salted water. Some will probably survive but then again you said your betta likes to snack on them so that isn't so bad I have a tank with some in them too they aren't so bad once you get used to them

[nacho]

Are nematodes still visible to the eye? Mine are extremely small. I have to be centimeters away from the glass to see them. I noticed planaria have a pink tinge, whereas nematodes are white. Mine are white. It could be that their bodies are so small, they appear white.

Whatever they are, I can deal if Darcy eats the stuff.

:P

[JamieTron]

Originally Posted by nacho

Are nematodes still visible to the eye? Mine are extremely small. I have to be centimeters away from the glass to see them. I noticed planaria have a pink tinge, whereas nematodes are white. Mine are white. It could be that their bodies are so small, they appear white.

Whatever they are, I can deal if Darcy eats the stuff.

:P

They are very hard to see but still able to see I grow them for fry food and I can see them in the tank if I really focus. So perhaps they are if they are that small hrm yea the planaria are really easy to see hrm. Nematodes are a great treat for them