Uneducated question

[PJS]

I'm curious and have to ask. I've only been reefing for a year now and this is first time seeing this. Last night I decided to shine the flashlight on the tank at about 2 am., I saw, what I compare to as a swarm of Nats flying around, these tiny bug like creatures by the hundreds swimming around. What are they? Good /bad? Are they Copepods?
Thank you for any guidance you may have.

 

[kschweer]

My guess would be copepods but without a picture just a guess. Maybe try to grab a picture if possible or google copepod and see if that's what you are seeing.

 

[PJS]

Thanks for the reply. I'll try to get a picture tonight. Do copepods swim fast?

 

[kschweer]

Thanks for the reply. I'll try to get a picture tonight. Do copepods swim fast?

They can if they need to, like getting away from a predator, and also when feeding.

 

[reefwiser]

Yes that is a good thing. They more the better the fish love eating them and they keep your tank clean.

 

[Davehla]

I have a bunch of Copepods in my 28 gallon jbj nanocube, but have none in my main 100 gallon display tank.

What are the pros and cons of taking some from my 28 gallon and adding them to my main display? Thank you!

 

[reefwiser]

No con's only pro's pods are good at cleaning up the left overs and also feed fish.