Critters in my sump filter sock

[kolarshooter]

8O
I changed-out the sock in my euro-fil 125 sump and found dozens of small, tan/beige wriggly thingies. They ranged from tiny to as large as 5/16 inch long. They were somewhat shrimp-like in appearance. I have an oversized sock and have not pulled it out to wash it in some time, so these guys might have been in there for a while growing.

Imagine my surprise when I looked in and saw the bottom of the sock occupied by these little dudes. I am only 4 months into this reef tank experiment and am really enjoying it. It's pretty pricy to get started, but it's not bad once things are going.

Anyway...

Are these some sort of shrimp or perhaps some other food critter that hitch-hiked into my tank in larval or egg form?

Thanks (in advance) for all your help!

 

[Anonymous]

Probably amphipods or other small pod.

You should try to harvest them from the filter sock and return them into the tank. They are a good natural food source for your fish and help clean up a bit too.

Louey

 

[kolarshooter]

Probably amphipods or other small pod.

You should try to harvest them from the filter sock and return them into the tank. They are a good natural food source for your fish and help clean up a bit too.

Louey

Dang...too late. They're getting the bleach treatment as we speak. I'll certainly figure out a way to return them to the tank next time.

Thanks!

 

[kolarshooter]

I think you're right. I looked on http://melevsreef.com/id/ and found pics. You are indeed correct sir.

Nice avitar pic :wink:

 

[Anonymous]

Thanks. I too, love my avatar.

You can always save the pods next time.

When I clean my filters, I usually harvest the pods into a bowl of tank water, then feed the pods to my fish after the lights come on.

Sometimes I spare them and put them in my refugium.

Pods in your system are good. Pods as natuaral food are also good.

Louey