AboutNathan Expertise I can answer all questions related to freshwater aquariums. If I am not available because I am maxed out, you can find me on the Aquarium Plants category. Fish care, fish behavior, feeding, breeding, and diseases are my specialty. To be specific, I am most familiar (though I am familiar with most species) with Livebearers, Tetras, Barbs, Danios, Loaches, Goldfish, Angelfish (freshwater), Catfish (corydoras, plecos, etc.), Bettas, shrimp, and even snails. I can help out with new tank setups, the cycling process (nitrogen cycle), acclimation of fish, and general care. I can also answer questions regarding many species of freshwater plants, including fish compatibility with plants. Additionally, I can lend a hand when it comes to aquarium support equipment questions, such as those regarding filters, heaters, lighting, and thermometers. Questions about aquarium water conditioners and products are also accepted. I will try to answer your question to the best of my abilities, and if I do not know an answer, I will do my best to find out.
I do not have much experience in saltwater aquariums, or pressurized CO2 systems, so I cannot answer any such questions. Best wishes, and good luck to your fish!
Experience I have kept freshwater fish tanks for many years, and I am experienced with a variety of different freshwater species and invertebrates, such as Tetras, Barbs, Loaches, Danios, Livebearers, Cichlids, Goldfish, Bettas, Catfish, Shrimp, and Snails. I have helped people set up aquariums, and I am very familiar with aquarium products and equipment. I have also bred many fish, and I always care for my fish in the best way possible.
What makes a good home for tropical fish? Well, all tropical fish, like guppies and Bettas, require filters, heaters, and a good-sized tank. Healthy fish should be actively swimming and feeding, with defined fins and clear eyes. Take a random check of some of your fish daily, to make sure they're thriving!
Education/Credentials I own an extensive collection of aquarium-related books and magazines, and have read all about, and I am experienced in, many aspects of humane and proper fishkeeping. Through these books and other articles, from reliable internet sources, and from personal experience with fish, I have a thorough knowledge of freshwater aquariums, fish, and freshwater plant species.
Question i have a 20 gallon tank with platys tetras a couple of gourmis also 2 ghost shrimp one of which is pregnant well we went from pebble bottom to sand which is great and very beautiful.but today i was looking at my shrimp and noticed hundreds of little bug looking thinks crawling on the sand .it would have been easy to miss because the are like pin point and smaller looks to be brownish clear in color is this a parasite that i need to worry about and if so how do i get rid of it?
Answer Hi Jennifer,
The small worm specks in the tank are most likely Planaria. These are small organisms that cannot harm your fish. They are brought on by poor water quality and an abundance of food and nutrients.
Perform 20% water changes daily along with a gravel vacuuming using a gravel siphon (available at your local fish store, if you do not have one, for about $8). This will keep nutrient/waste levels down, and will prevent any ammonia poisoning or a similar problem.
As long as they are not attaching to the fish, then it's not a problem and you should not treat it with a chemical.
