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Showing posts from October, 2009

Aiptasia in the Reef Aquarium Can Be a Big Problem, Here is a Few Solutions.

Aiptasia or the glass anemone as it is otherwise known. Is known in the reef keeping hobby, to be a pest and a pain to control. It can be quite destructive. But there are ways to control aiptasia. Their are natural ways and chemical ways of control them. Many would argue that the natural method is the way to go, but is not always as effective as the chemical method. The natural methods will add life to any coral reef aquarium including the future of accidental introduction from new coral additions. Natural methods. There are three natural methods that i know of and probably the most known is the introduction of a true Pepper mint shrimp. My past experience has shown me that these shrimp don't tend to consume big Glass anemones, but certainly control and stop the formation and growth of new aiptasia. The second method that i have no experience with are Berghia nudibranches.I have found out these will consume aiptasia, but that is all this type of nudibranch will consume, so after it

Aiptasia Problem, here's the cure.

Well after the problem with the leaking skimmer, another problem has come to light. Aiptasia, or glass anemone as it is otherwise known. My first intention was to purchase a peppermint shrimp, but at my latest visit to a LFS had non in stock but recommended Aiptasia X. I have heard of this before but was a little sceptical. It is expensive but thought what the heck!! This product is fantastic, simply shake it up, draw some into the syringe provided, turn off any Power heads. The best bit insert the fine tip very closely to the centre of the anemone and introduce the fluid. The anemone then consumes the fluid and just appears to withdraw and die. After 24 hours all my aiptasia seems to have almost gone. I would highly recommend this product despite the high cost.