little green bugs

Question
I have found these little green bugs on the lids of two different tanks in my house.  They are gnat size and seem to be attracted to algae.  But I just did water change, vacuumed the gravel, and changed the filters in one of the tanks, only to find the bugs are slowly coming back!  There are no live plants in the tanks.  What are they and can we treat the water with something to get rid of them? The other tank was cleaned recently and does not have a build-up of algae.  Also, do you think they pose a threat to fish or other animals?
-Kristi

Answer
Hi Kristi,
Most bugs that get into our aquarium are harmless critters that scavenge on debris in the tank. Especially the moist gunk or algae that tends to grow underneath aquarium lids. Wiping these clean will help deter the bugs greatly. As will big water changes if they are in the water too.

*Medications are not generally recommended because of the harm it can do to your fishes health and the good bacteria that live in your aquarium as well.

Its difficult to know what species they may be but the keys to controlling them and making them go away involve removing what attracts them and keeps their population thriving.

I hope this helps! Best wishes and Happy Holidays!
Karen~