Worm ID

[jjudd1068]

I need a hand identifying these and figuring out how too control them. They make little red tubes, 1/4 too 1/3 inch or so long, and abnout 1/16 inch wide. Whenever the water has any particulate in it (for instance when im cleaning the tank or blowing offf the rocks with a turkey baster) they put out a line of sticky slime, which they allow too collect particulate matter and then reel back in. At this point there are so many that is is becoming impossible too add enough calcium too keep the rest of my tank healthy.
I need a name so I can google them and find out more info. Also, any tips on ridding my tank of these would be appreciated.

 

[LeslieH]

these are vermetid molluscs, odd little snails that lost the ability to coil and instead form these long worm-like tubes. Some fish will eat them - I've heard people mention copperbanded butterflys - or do what most people do & manually crush or scrape them.

 

[jjudd1068]

Thank you! looks like I have a LOT of work too do.