Torch pest ID needed

[Ergo531]

Hi all, hoping for an ID and treatment for a torch coral pest. This is an old photo, but the issue persists over a number of months with the flesh band significantly declining. Thanks in advance.

 

[carri10]

If they move about very slowly, they are flatworms that will eat your euphyllia. I would immediately remove and dip. I’d set up a small QT and keep them in there dipping every 5 days for a few weeks. Once you’ve killed them and any eggs and you’re sure there are no more, you can out back in tank. Don’t out them back in too quick.

 

[Ergo531]

Many thanks and had a feeling they were flat worms. Ive dipped a few times, but assume I'll need to keep dipping and QT. How often should I dip? Can these flatworms infest other euphyllias?

 

[Ergo531]

If they move about very slowly, they are flatworms that will eat your euphyllia. I would immediately remove and dip. I’d set up a small QT and keep them in there dipping every 5 days for a few weeks. Once you’ve killed them and any eggs and you’re sure there are no more, you can out back in tank. Don’t out them back in too quick.

I just reread...dip every 5 days. Thanks again!

 

[carri10]

Yes. They can, and likely will, infest other euphyllia. Good luck. They’re not the worst of pests, and not too difficult to spot.

 

[BryanM]

6 line wrasses eat them as well, even though 6 lines get a bad reputation, mine has been great.

 

[commod0re]

springeri damsel is another option for flatworm control

 

[Ergo531]

Thanks all! Appreciate the quick responses. I removed the torch, dipped it, and its currently in quarantine. My other torches seem to be ok, but will monitor. I may look into a six-line or springeri eventually. Thanks again.