Green Flatworms, Treatment & SPS

[Rick55555]

Hello,

I am looking for more information on procedures for eradicating green flatworms from my SPS tank. From what I have read in passing, the flatworms are not necessarily detrimental to SPS (and are distinct from AEFW), but can grow to plague proportions. Am I correct, in this regard?

Does anyone have a successful treatment protocol they have used to remove this pest from an SPS tank? I am concerned that killing the flatworms off too quickly may release toxins into the water column. I have, however, been considering using Zeovit's Flatworm Stop. Will this product and the other products intended to treat AEFW (e.g. Flatworm Exit) work on the green flatworm variety?

The flatworms (or what I am describing as flatworms inside my SPS tank) are all green. They are not red or brown. They congregate on the sandbed, particularly around the tank's edges and on portions of the live rock. I have not observed any eggs of any kind on or around my SPS.

I will try to upload pictures momentarily.

Any input would be appreciated.

Thanks,
Rick

 

[DesertReefT4r]

Flatworm Exit. Worked for me when I had a red/brown flatworm issue. Follow the directions on the package, dont skip on any steps.

 

[reefmutt]

yes, Flatworm exit.
But I think dragonets will eat them, if you want a natural control..

 

[DesertReefT4r]

Wrasses do a better job imo. Get a Six Line.

 

[mike810]

If you decide to go the flatworm exit route, make sure your fish are on the other side of the tank distracted by someone while you do flatworm exit on the opposite side in front of a powerhead. Or you can dose into your sump's return section. I bring this up because I once tried flatworm exit and dosed in front of a powerhead. All my fish followed me of course thinking they were about to be fed. My achillies tang must have taken a big dose of flatworm exit, it darted to the opposite side of the tank and I literally watch it take it's last few breaths before dying within 30 seconds of dosing. All it's fins were flashing and that's how it died, like it was paralyzed or something. It was heartbreaking to say the least watching one of your prized fish die in 30 seconds like that.

 

[Rick55555]

I appreciate all of the input. I may very well do all of the above (but start with a wrasse and dragonet and escalate accordingly).

The fish loss sounds tragic. I dislike pests and pest-treatment. I just want to grow my coral in peace.

Thanks, guys.