Hi
Can anyone help with our parasite problem we have a 8" Pleco and 8" Oscar. For about the last six weeks we have noticed 1mm white parasites on the glass which have really increased recently. Both the fish look fine and healthy and they do not seem to have anything on them. The parasites are sort of triangular in shape. Any ideas for getting rid of them without putting our beautiful 'Billy' and 'Pleco' at risk?
Thanks
Lyn

I'm thinking it could be Planaria for two reasons.

1. I am not aware of any Parasites that do not attach or affect the fish itself directly (as in your case)

2. Planaria worms are known to have a slightly triagular head on them.

See this link:
www.fishdeals.com/fish_diseases/planaria_white_worms/

Joliet Jake wrote:


They are more than likely something like flatworms. Anyway, I have already said this in an e-mail to her.

I am still confused by this because they are not worm like in appearance at all.

Without seeing a really good photo, it is very difficult to know what they are. All I will say is that if the parasites are not on your fish, I don't think you have anything to worry about whatsoever. It is when you see parasites on your fish, that's when you could have problems.

Can you take and post a photo?

Parasites attack a host. If the host is not being attacked then whatever it is, it is not a parasite.
It may be some type of worm, organism or algae even.
But without being able to see it, its all we can do but guess at it.

Well if you ha ve little white things in your tank, that are not also on your fish, then there is more information that may be needed. A picture would also help as previously stated. I agree that they are most likely planaria from the information givin. A little more information would help. What size of tank and what kind of water parameters do you have? Readings for Ammonia, NitrITE, and NitrATE would help alot. Also some things that could help, would be doing a thorough gravel vac, clean the glass, and cut back on feedings until they go away. Alot of times planaria appear because of overfeeding, and an undermaintained tank.