pods ravaging new polyps

[Markcolin]

Have tried a few times to introduce some different polyps into tank, only to have the pods devour them within days. Last time this happened, we got a red mandarin and a 6 line wrasse. Both of them are really fat now, about 6 months feasting on pods. Is it common to have the pods eat new polyps? Have one large colony of purple zoas, but really would like some more colors.

Thanks.

 

[A. Grandis]

They take advantage of the new zoas probably because of the stress they are while adapting and simply because the zoas are new to the tank.
I'm not sure what type of suggestion I can recommend to you because if they are eating every zoa you put in the tank that will probably continue until they are totally gone.

I think you could try placing them on racks first, far from the live rocks, and after they are open and when the adaptation process ends you could place them on the rocks or sand, as you wish. Wait for them to open and look really good.

Grandis.

 

[reefling]

you can try putting them in a high flow area. the pods would probably wash away and give your zoas time to adjust.

 

[MUCHO REEF]

Have tried a few times to introduce some different polyps into tank, only to have the pods devour them within days. Last time this happened, we got a red mandarin and a 6 line wrasse. Both of them are really fat now, about 6 months feasting on pods. Is it common to have the pods eat new polyps? Have one large colony of purple zoas, but really would like some more colors.

Thanks.

Sorry to hear that, I feel your pain Mark. Have a question, have you actually seen them devour all of your polyps, or were a few seen around those which disappeared? Not doubting you, just asking for clarity.

Pods ( amphipods ) are generally beneficial in both aquaria and the wild. There is considerable debate over whether or not pods even consume polyps. There are however a few of which I believe will indeed consume polyps. Since no one that I know of nor any literature that I have personally read has identified which are the true bandits, the best thing we can do is to take proactive measures to keep them at a minimum. Thus, I would take matters in your own hands as you did before and keep a hunter or two in your system at all times. There are several listed in the second link below. For the sake of keeping this thread going, it would be great if everyone listed the fish they chose to keep their pods at a minimum. The first link has a bit of FYI info that is also beneficial to read.

Good luck my friend.


http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/s...eracarida+of+the+class+malacostraca+say+what+

http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1015532&highlight=pods

http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2089170

MUCHO REEF
TOTM - August 2003

 

[MUCHO REEF]

Any updates?