Leeches in tank

[Arran walker]

Just been cleaning out water in the tank and after emptying old water into the bath i found what looks like a leech :/ anyone know what it is and had them before? Cheers

 

[TheCommunityCichlid]

Defiantly a leech, probably came in on plants or something

 

[Arran walker]

Ah ok cool, Can they affect fish in any wa

 

[TheCommunityCichlid]

Not sure about in the aquarium since fish are small, but I believe they can feed on larger fish in lakes, ponds and rivers

 

[Surfer]

Not sure about in the aquarium since fish are small, but I believe they can feed on larger fish in lakes, ponds and rivers

+1
They also spread pathogens to your fish and give them good sized welts. It'd be best to get rid of them completely.

 

[Arran walker]

Ive only just found one tonight and iv not seen any more in there or seen them in there before, should i just keep a look out for them?

 

[Surfer]

Ive only just found one tonight and iv not seen any more in there or seen them in there before, should i just keep a look out for them?

Definitely be on the lookout

 

[Wiggles24]

If you found two there's probably a lot more. I have one of my tanks infested with them however, luckily the ones I have don't bother my fish or shrimp, they are generally OK with eating plant matter n food debris.

 

[Wiggles24]

I do have a different variety then u do too.

 

[jlk]

If there's a single leech, there's definitely more! Leeches are true hermaphrodites and a single leech can produce a slew of fertile eggs. I suggest closely inspecting your filter media and housing, any plants and rocks/decor. The eggs look like little football shaped sacs that will be firmly attached to whatever surface you find them on.

 

[Rivers2k]

I would stop dumping water from that tank into the bath don't want one swimming up your ..... LOL

 

[Arran walker]

Haha i thought the same thing my blood pressure has dropped so i hope thats not happend lol