parasites vs gravity

[nycreef]

someone told me if i keep the gravity low, parasites cant tolerate that low a gravity nor too high a gravity. is there any truth to this philosophy? if so, why dont we use that method?

[gregt]

This is why the reefs on the moon have no parasites.

Just kidding.

Seriously though, keeping a constantly low salinity will stress your critters as bad as a parasite infection.

Using salinity to control an existing outbreak of a parasite is another subject, but I would not recommend a salinity other than that of natural sea water.

[FishDaddy]

Hi Nycreef,
IMHO, the best way to control parasites in a reef is to provide the best water quality and husbandry for healthy fish. Healthy fish are more apt to withstand and recover from any parasitic infection. In specific cases, such as Drew's recent Isopod problem, specific remedies can be used. Keeping a Cleaner shrimp, such as Lysmata amboenensis, can be a help in controlling some parasites as well as having a healthy population of all kinds of LR/LS critters. There are many nasty organisms in our tanks that are kept in check by a healthy ecosystem and healthy fish. Weakening the system or stressing the fish makes them more susceptible to infections or infestations that could merit specific remedies.
Dick

[gregt]

Thanks Dick, That's what I was trying to say, but you said it so much better.

[FishDaddy]