Leech in new tank

[IanT76]

Jessica - thanks; I'm going to call the vet later to see if she will/can sell me some. If I can get it, I'll, keep it on standby - still fingers-crossed that these are crud-eaters only. If I need to add it, what dosage should I use and would it be best to leave plants/décor in there to treat them as well?

JLK - I'm not using any external ammonia source (impossible to find here on Tatooine...). My levels have got quite high naturally, and was thinkng of dropping a shrimp in there if needed. The eggs sacks were pretty gross when popped & didn't realise I had a small cut on my arm BEFORE scrubbing down with bleach! OOOOOWWWW!!! Adding injury to insult, I think, lol. I'll keep this post updated as/when things develop; seems this is quite a unique "infestation", so hopefully this newbie might be able to teach the community something

I heard that mini Puffers eat leeches; is this correct? If so, uber-win for me, as that's what I wanted to stock with when the tank was ready. And also Clown Loaches - I think I read these eat them as well? If there are organic control measures, that would be perfect if needed.

 

[jlk]

Your vet likely can give you levamisole but I am not sure how effective it would be against leeches. An insecticide is the only known thing to kill them. A DTHP (organophosphate insecticide) product such as Clout/Lifebearer or Dimilin (another type of insecticide) or Cyropro (another type of insecticide) are known to kill the adults but as I mentioned, nothing kills the eggs so need to continue treatment for awhile to kill any new hatchlings. I dont keep tropicals but I am sure others can offer suggestions in respect to the fish your considering. A natural approach (such as fish control of the leeches or leech traps) is always preferred.

 

[IanT76]

Thanks again JLK - didn't get chance to call the vet, but will try tomorrow. Still hoping I can get my mini puffers though! No sign of any of the little versions tonight, nor any more egg sacks. I'm due a PWC on Friday, so will brave opening the filter as well...will update if anything leaps out to suck my face off, lol.

I read somewhere that putting a penny in the filter could work, but would clearly spike copper levels to a dangerous high; would this be dangerous for plants as well as fish, and would subsequent PWCs reduce these levels prior to adding stock?

 

[jlk]

I have heard of the copper penny story before and I honestly think its just a myth until I see scientific proof stating otherwise. I would skip it though just to be on the safe side.

 

[IanT76]

Roger!