[ffd649]

I have heard mixed reviews on these critters. The type I have in my tank, picture below, is it a predatory type or a scavenger for cleaning up. This thing literally showed up in my tank overnight. It is ugly, I would like to get rid of it, but it is kind of cool too.

I also have the pods (tiny white dots on glass, some look like a serpent starfish) I also discovered I have AIP (only one, can I keep it?) Also have reef clam I guess this is ok? It has the little clear looking shrimp with a dark line down the back around it.

I have had a saltwater tank twice now & each time I build it bigger and better, but I don't remember ever having any of this stuff in my tanks before. Is this normal growth as the tank cycles? Should I add fish/invertebrates to get rid of stuff? I will be out of town for a week in June and really don't want to buy anything for fear of it dying while I am gone.

[sigsauer]

Most bristle worms won't hurt anything until they get in the four or five inch range. I had a bunch in my tank and didn't like them, so I cought a coral banded shrimp. Haven't seen one in a few weeks. Aiptasia will reproduce and get out of control if the conditions are right. Best to get rid of it right away. There are all kinds of chemicals but it's best to do it the natural way. Peppermint shrimp will eat them.

[Six-line Wrasse]

He seems fine. I have plenty of similar bristleworms slinking around my tank and I haven't had a problem yet.

[pogodzib]

I consider bristleworms good and don't do anything to control them in my tanks. They haven't caused any problems in my reef tanks since they were first setup 4 years ago.

[Six-line Wrasse]

And I forgot to add: If you do want to control your bristleworm population, you can do so by adding a wrasse or coral banded shrimp. Both are natural predators of bristleworms.

[ffd649]

Thank you for your input. I am learning so much. I plan on getting all of those natural predators after my vacation in June. I just hope the tank can handle it and not too out of control when I get back. Currently only have a coral beauty, sand sifting star (he actually grew bigger) and 2 reef crabs/hermits. (leftovers from other tank)

Ya'll are always right on the money. Thanks again

[Six-line Wrasse]

Ask your LFS which wrasse would be best. I know most will eat bristleworms, but I know some won't also, so maybe he can or you can do some quick research and get the specifics.

[rgsgroup2005]

I have some huge bristle worms in my reef tank. They didn't cause any problems for a year until yesterday! I came home from work and seen my starfish torn in 5 pieces! It looked like all its inside were ripped out!!! My coral banded shrimp can't seem to catch them but tries. My advise? GET RID OF THEM! I highly doubt my damsel or clown fish ate the poor starfish.