black spots

[raycopp]

I have just notice small black specs on my Sohal and Sailfin Tangs.What is this and is it treatable in a reef?

[zhenya]

Hi Ray,

Black spots that are clearly visible on the tangs usually a sign of the so-called Tang desease, or the Turbellarian infection. Turbellarians are small, parasitic flatworms(Paravortex) that cause this desease and lots of folks suggest doing a fresh water baths or the formalin baths. I had never encounter this on my own so I can't relate any personal experiences, hopefully Steven Pro sees this thread and responds with more solutions.

[raycopp]

Gene,

Thank you for your reply. I have been reading about this and it seems the only treatment is a freshwater bath How do i get them out of a 200gal tank with 300lbs of live rock? Seems i might have to just let this run its course and suffer the loss. Hate to do this, but cant find any other treatment.

[CSeaSee]

If you have a clear container that he'll fit in, put some macroalgae in the bottom of the container, use a cleaner magnet to attach the container to a wall, and place the container near the top, with barely enough room for the tang to squeeze into. Eventually, he'll figure out how to get in, but then will have trouble getting out.

[zhenya]

I have to agree with Chris on this, try to entice them into a trap somehow before giving up. I realize how difficult it must be to catch them in a large tank like yours, but give it a shot, at least. ;)

[raycopp]

i tried all night to catch them. no luck. i have been noticing the cleaner shrimp working on them. i am hoping this will work.