Found a Cirolanid Isopod....Now what?

tubsy3 · 11-01-2006, 01:09 AM

Hi all,

I just began cycling my tank with TBS rock. The water is doing fine and I am picking up the second half of the rock and cleanup crew tomrrow. I heard a clicking noise today and found a mantis crab. When I took the rock out to get the mantis, I saw a Cirolanid Isopod in the water in the tray I was using. If there is one in my tank now, there must be more....I am guessing. What do I do now? all my hermits, snails and cukes are coming in tomorrow will they be affected?I read that they will die off in 6 months but that is a TON of time from now. Is there any way to treat for these buggers?

Thanks
Chris

leveldrummer · 11-01-2006, 07:09 AM

im not sure about that species you mention, but in general, pods in your tank is a great thing, they clean up any extra foods and detrius. and many fish eat them. every one of our tanks have pods in them so dont worry.

Geoff · 11-01-2006, 08:39 AM

here is an article on isopods. are you sure it is an isopod and not a normal amphipod?

G~

tubsy3 · 11-01-2006, 08:45 AM

Well, i am new to sw tanks but I have seen how these things look in pics and it is close to what I have seen yesterday. I have never seen them swimming in the tank even with the light out. I thought I was lucky and wouldnt have to deal with them but I guess not. As for being sure it is a cirolanid I am not 100% positive. It looked like a clear pillbug with black eyes. The way it swam was like little bursts. I was pissed off when I saw it and jsut tossed the water. IF i see one again i will get a pic first. Looks like i wont be adding anythign for quite some time.

Paintbug · 11-01-2006, 10:25 PM

here some more info on isopods. there is several types that look alot like Cirolanids, but are not preditorial.
http://www.reefkeeping.com/issues/2002-05/rs/index.php

one of the most common are Sphaeromatids. they are algae eaters, and harmless to your livestock. the link i posted shows the two side by side so you know for sure. however, if you know for sure, or cannot tell 100% that its not a Cirolanid, play it safe and use some rubber gloves when removing them. they have been known to attack humans as well.