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Reef tank aquariums add a tranquil touch to your home, but without maintenance, invasive pests can dominate your tank. According to the experts from Gerber's Tropical Fish in Dayton, OH, pests can easily be introduced into the aquarium by hitching a ride on fish and coral. If you notice your fish and plants are failing to thrive because of pests, read on for this helpful guide that explains how to deal with them.

Asterina Starfish

While most species of asterina starfish typically aren’t harmful to aquarium ecosystems, they do sometimes feed on soft coral, and they can reproduce quickly. The easiest way to remove asterina starfish from your reef tank is by pulling them out with tongs or tweezers. If you prefer to introduce a predator into the tank, the Harlequin Shrimp can be used.

Majano Anemone

This quickly spreading pest can kill coral in your fish tank, and they are best eradicated when using a chemical solution or injection. Likewise, you can use a device like a Majano Wand, which uses electrolysis to disintegrate the anemones.

Acropora Eating Flatworms

Left untreated, these flatworms can completely destroy small polyp stony coral. The best way to remove them is by using a chemical flatworm control solution treatment in your tank, followed by removing and dipping the Acropora into the solution to kill any remaining worms.

Rust Brown Flatworms

Typically found in aquariums with excess waste, these pests can quickly overtake your tank and even block photosynthesis by latching onto corals. They should be treated with a chemical solution, or you can physically remove them with a siphon. Their natural predators include Dragonets and Wrasses.

Aiptasia Anemone

reef tankThese quickly multiplying pests pose a significant threat to aquariums because they sting fish and coral. For treatment, you can cover or inject the anemone with a substance that destroys it, or you can use the Majano Wand device to disintegrate them. If your infestation persists, consider introducing a natural predator, like Peppermint Shrimp or Copperband Butterfly Fish, into the reef tank.

Coral Eating Nudibranchs

These tiny pests pose a threat to small polyp stony coral and soft corals. Treatment options include dipping the coral, but sometimes this is not effective on new eggs. Coupled with physically removing the nudibranchs, regularly dipping the corals can help with long-term infestations.

Red Bugs

These mite-like crustaceans feed on Acropora coral, and can pose a significant threat when allowed to multiply in high numbers. Red Bugs are particularly stubborn, so it’s necessary to regularly dip and quarantine new coral. Introducing a predator like Dragonface Pipefish is helpful to curb long-term infestations.

Bristle Worms

Bristle Worms are only harmful to your reef tank’s ecosystem when they’re allowed to multiply in high numbers, or when they grow larger than four inches. To remove bristle worms, you can simply remove them physically or purchase a special trap. Their natural predators include Arrow Crabs, Wrasse, and Hawkfish.

For the best selection of saltwater and exotic freshwater fish in the Dayton and Cincinnati areas, visit Gerber's Tropical Fish. With over 100 years of combined experience, their helpful staff is happy to help you create a thriving aquarium ecosystem. Take a look at some of their products, or give them a call at (937) 297-0515 to speak with a qualified team member.

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