White super tiny insect

[danzel]

Hi,

I have a small tank about 20cm cube and I notice there are some super tiny white insect (the size of a speck of dust) swimming inside my tank. Are they harmful to my super shrimp?

[KenCotigirl]

A picture would be helpful but if they are as small as you indicate it may not help. I would guess a copepod. Not harmful.

[danzel]

I dont have a camera that is good enough of capturing it. It is v small and swimming around in the water. There are a few of them probably less than 10.

[Mustafa]

It's probably as Cotigirl said....copepods. They are very common in both freshwater and saltwater. There are no underwater insects, and most aquatic insect larvae cannot tolerate elevated levels of salinity.

[danzel]

Is there any way I can get rid of it? Or will the numbers keep multiplying as they reproduce?

Btw where do they come from?

[KenCotigirl]

Just try to ignore them. They are harmless. Trying to kill or remove them will just harm the Opae. Look at them as part of your ecosystem.

[danzel]

Ok will leave them alone.

But will their numbers increase?

[KenCotigirl]

Again do not let their numbers concern you. Until your tank stabilizes their numbers will fluctuate. Their presence is not an indication of bad husbandry. Sit back relax and enjoy.

[danzel]

Ok thanks will ignore it.

Btw just curious, do your tank have such insects too?

[KenCotigirl]

Yes in each Opae tank. Google them. As adults they have elongated bodies with two long antenna. A millimeter in length.