Whelks?

[Fishdude]

Hi,

What do you guys think about whelks? I have several of them in my tank and am wondering if I should get them out. I've read about how they are predatory and have actually seen one eat a grazing snail. Haven't noticed any real damage to my other inhabitants. I was just wondering whether getting rid of them might not allow more grazers to survive and clean up a little better. Also, maybe they might be killing other things I'm not aware of. They are growing larger.

Thanks.

 

[esmithiii]

I doubt that your tank is big enough for a whale!

Just kidding. What is a whelk? Pics?

Ernie

 

[Mouse]

Oh, Ernie.

What's big and blue and wobbles, now think about it..... think harder....... oh godamnit.. its the SEA!

 

[2poor2reef]

Fishdude, I think you answered your own question. Most whelks are predatory and will eat live healthy animals. Nssarius are an exception as I have only seen them scavenge dead or dying animals. You've already observed that they prey on your grazers so I can't see why you would want to leave them. I have a simple standard that I apply to my tanks. If I paid money for something that I didn't intend you to eat, then you have to go live in the sump until I finmd a good home/tank for you. I have incarcerated many carbs/shrimp and other critters but I think it's our responsibility to find them a home as they are just being themselves and didn't ask to be added into your tank. These hitchikers are just part of the experience.

 

[Fishdude]

Thanks for the replies.

Esmithii, whelks are predatory snails. Sorry I don't have pictures. There's a link to a good article on predatory snails by Dr. Shimek on the Hitchhiker's FAQ page.

2poor2reef, I think you may be right.

 

[esmithiii]

Thanks.

Mouse: "Wobbles" is certainly a creative way to describe the tides. I can be dense sometimes.

E