Parasite ID Please

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T

TMDragon

Feeder Fish
MFK Member
Feb 1, 2008
363
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0
California
So I'm in the middle of doing my monthly Filter cleanings and I found these little worms in the filter pads of my sump. They are small, smooth, dark brown, and about 4 cm long. At first I thought they were fish feces but after I rinsed them out of my filter pads they started to wiggle around. I have no idea where they came from and don't remember seeing them last month, but like I said, they look like fish feces so i could have passed them off for that.

So I'm wondering if anyone knows what these little critters are and if they are harmful to the fish. I'm not very familiar with parasites so any information would be very helpful. Thanks in advance.
 
Here's some pics of the critters. Any feedback would be much appreciated.
Worm1.jpg

Worm2.jpg
 
Phew, thanks for the reply Lupin. I was worried it was some type of Leech. Should I be worried about these guys though?
 
I don't think they pose much danger or so at least in my experience. Most fish will eat the polychaetes. If you find them unsightly, feel free to remove them.
 
Ok that's good, but I only have my 11.5'' Oscar in the tank atm and considering how small these worms are I doubt it will see them, let alone eat them. :P

I also haven't seen any worms anywhere other than in the filter pads of my sump. Thanks for all your help Lupin. :)
 
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