Tube Worms Problem?

btang · 02-26-2005, 01:03 PM

I seem to be getting a large number of tube worms in the tank. It this a problem? I guess they are reproducing. If it is a problem how do you get it under control? Tube worn is white with a duster on the end of it. Let me know if you need to see a pic.

jdbassin · 02-26-2005, 01:56 PM

tube worms aren't a problem, though an explosive growth of them could indicate a problem with high levels of organics in the tank, most often I've found in m,y tanks that the multiply and decline multiply and decline. it just kind of cycles, if you have to many of them though or you don't like them I believe the pepermint shrimp will eat them as well as several other fish and inverts that I can't remember right now. Hopefully someone elso can chime in here

jd

VWD · 02-26-2005, 02:48 PM

I Don't mind them , I think they are just part of a reef tank , all little filter feeders ,
Vince

btang · 02-26-2005, 03:50 PM

I guess thats what Im asking. Is it a good sign or bad? It does look natural, but is it a good thing?

Alice · 02-26-2005, 04:03 PM

The certainly aren't going to hurt anything, though they can get to the point where they detract from the look of the tank - if you're focusing on the corals, that is.

As was mentioned above, high nutrients are probably fueling their reproduction explosion. They tend to reach a large population and then die back some but cleaning up the detritus and the water will keep them from getting out of control in the long run.

They're finding something in there they like to eat.