What is the ice cube method of removing BTA’s?

[Neptune 555]

I’ve heard the ice cube method referenced for removing BTAs but no explanation of how? I have an infestation of BTA’s in my 180 reef. 50 ish BTAs and I want 2/3. I’ve done the cannon method previously but need something faster.

 

[Reefkeepers Archive]

Why not just trade then in at lfs for store credit

 

[rc8t6353]

From what I've been told, you basically take an ice cube and rub it on the foot of the nem to encourage it to let go. I've never done it but some swear by it. Hope this helps

 

[mtfish]

From what I've been told, you basically take an ice cube and rub it on the foot of the nem to encourage it to let go. I've never done it but some swear by it. Hope this helps

This is correct and I have used it before. Try to use an icecube that has a square edge. Works best if you can remove the rock the nem is on so the cold does not dissipate in the water. Start at the edge of the foot and start to rub. The foot will start to lift up, then you can really get the ice under the foot and it goes faster after that. Good luck. I too am over run by rose BTA's!

 

[Neptune 555]

anybody want some rose BTA's? Happy to trade in NH.

 

[exnisstech]

I’ve heard the ice cube method referenced for removing BTAs but no explanation of how? I have an infestation of BTA’s in my 180 reef. 50 ish BTAs and I want 2/3. I’ve done the cannon method previously but need something faster.

How old is this tank? I only ask out if curiosity because I had the same issue with bubble tips in my 180 years ago. I went from 3 to almost 50 at one point. When the tank matured a few more years the nems stop splitting.

 

[Cell]

Ice cube method is a pain and hit or miss.

Safe and Easy DIY way to remove Nems

Due to seeing numerous post recently about how to remove anemones and shrooms without hurting them or destroying rock work. I felt like this was in order. First off, a little back story. Years ago, when I lived in Florida and collected aquatic life on a regular basis, we always had issues with...

www.reef2reef.com

 

[Neptune 555]

How old is this tank? I only ask out if curiosity because I had the same issue with bubble tips in my 180 years ago. I went from 3 to almost 50 at one point. When the tank matured a few more years the nems stop splitting.

This tank was set up 5 years ago but it was made from 2 other tanks that were 20 / 10 years old... but all new water and sand. Same rock/fish/. bigger tank new lights. BUT in the tank that donated the BTA... it had lived in that tank 7 years never split? I have no idea why sometimes they have bubbles, don't have bubbles and split? It is a mystery... but one that will kill me b/c I am VERY reactive to BTA's.

 

[exnisstech]

I think I figured out the bubble thing, at least in my tank. Lower flow equals larger bubbles. More flow and they get long stringy tentacles. That's the only nem mystery I think I've solved. I don't think I'm even putting any in my new build. I just need to figure out what to do with a stock tank full of them

 

[D-Nak]

The method only works if you can actually get to the foot. Most times the foot is wedged into the rockwork so they're impossible to remove unless you break the rock (with a hammer and chisel).