Nematodes are harmless worms
Nematodes are harmless, tiny worms that sometimes infect our aquariums or ponds. Even though they benefit the environment by utilizing waste, they’re unsightly. These little pests are easily destroyed by dangerous chemicals, however, these same chemicals can destroy our fish as well. Just like all parasite invasions, it’s best to eliminate them naturally so as not to harm the fish or their environment
A safe and effective remedy Sea Salt and Garlic remedy
Simplify your set up before treatment. If you’re using sand as a substrate, replace with a thin layer of natural pea gravel. Remove decorations. For best results, water temperature should be at 72f and tank lights should be turned off during treatment. Nematodes prefer darkness and warmer temperatures. If they’re hiding or dormant, the treatment won’t be as effective
To treat: perform 20% daily water changes. Premix one ounce of Garlic and Salt Remedy per 10 gallons of tank water to freshwater before adding to tank. Use water treatment to eliminate chlorine as needed
Repeat for three days; wait two to three weeks and repeat entire treatment. A third treatment may be necessary if infection persists
During treatment, dip plants and decorations in bucket of chlorine bleach water (one teaspoon of bleach per gallon of water) air dry for two to three hours before replacing in fish house. Treat new plants with the same formula before adding to tank or pond
Tiny white worms quarium
If infection persists, it’s likely they’re being introduced into the environment unknowingly, or your fish water is poor in quality
Infestation is easily discouraged by maintaining water conditions that goldfish and beneficial bacteria thrive in, such as cold water that is rich in oxygen. Parasites, nematodes included can’t tolerate these same conditions, preferring water low in oxygen and mineral value
Read and follow 10 Steps to Goldfish Koi Keeping
Worms in aquarium
Nematodes live in the ground. Their larvae is impossible to see with the naked eye, and most people wouldn’t notice a mature worm if they weren’t observant. The worms can grow several inches long, but it’s unlikely they’ll reach this size in your tank. Different from earth worms, nematodes can live in earth or water
If your fish water is healthy, and after using the remedy infection persists, it’s likely reinfection is occurring
To prevent infection rinse your hands in hydrogen peroxide before feeding your fish or coming into contact with fish water. This goes double if you’ve been busy in the garden
If you’re on a well, treat freshwater with chlorine bleach; one teaspoon per 10 gallons of water. Use water treatment to eliminate chlorine or add a pump to freshwater bucket; leave running for two to three hours before adding water to fish tank. Chlorine is a liquid gas, and is eliminated when exposed to fresh air
Nematodes are considered as a lucky meal to fish in the wild, but our goldfish are spoiled to finer things in life, such as tasty flakes and pellets. A fish that’s only been fed these specific foods, may show little interest in the worms. Withholding food for a day or two may encourage it, but could also create a spike in the cycle. If algae is present, the fish may prefer the algae over the worms
Instead of withholding food, feed sparingly. Within a few days the fish may decide the worms aren’t such a bad food source afterall. Once the worm population has been depleted, gradually build back up to normal amounts of food, taking several weeks to do so
All rights
Author: Brenda Rand