[Trek2]

I learned a hard lesson about proper QT this week. I guess I became complacent after being trouble free for a long period of time.

I just recently introduced several new fish into my tank and immediately began to have problems. First my Clowns, that were healthy as could be for over 2 years were hit with Brooklynella. I could not believe how fast it progressed. Despite my treatment efforts the female died, fortunately the smaller male seems to now be recovering in a QT tank.

Next, I noticed my Yellow and Blue Tangs showing tell tail signs of a parasitic problem. I do not see any visible infection on them so I looked closer and found that two of the new fish I introduced (Firefish) are showing visible flatworms. I know a fresh water dip will take care of these worms but it is next to impossible to catch a Firefish in my reef tank. The same goes for the Tangs, they are just too fast and there is just too must live rock and Coral in my tank.

Is there an effective and safe way to treat for worms with corals and other inverts in a reef tank? I fear the entire tank is now contaminated and I have no way to remove and quarantine the entire fish population. I’m currently treating the tank with No-Ich something that is “Reef Safe” but I’m unsure if it will be effective for the worms on my Firefish and possible now on my Tangs.

[leebca]

Thanks for your post.

Is there an effective and safe way to treat for worms with corals and other inverts in a reef tank?

Not that I know of. Most products can make claims because they contain ingredients that have been known (usually under very specific conditions) to inhibit or kill certain bacteria or parasites, but not necessarily cure a condition.

I don't think I need to mention the value of quarantine. You seem to get it now. But. . .the lesson isn't over. Remove all fish and treat them properly.

This may help some: How to Catch Fish -or- Goin' Fisin'

Good luck!

[Trek2]

Thanks for the reply.

I know what I have to do, unfortunately I also know the additional stress this will cause the fish and the disruption to long time established Corals is going to continue to make my situation go from bad to even worse.

This has turned out to be my single worst experience that I now refer to as a complete disaster. I have already lost one of my Clowns that was bonded with its mate for almost 5 years. I euthanized one of the 4 Firefish that was terminal and I have now confirmed my Blue Tank has the worms too.

The worst part is I know things are far from over.

[leebca]

Sorry for your losses.