new tank with white thread-like worm

Question
I have set up a 3-gal tank with bio filter. After 48 hours I
added 2 guppies and 3 ghost shrimp. Next day 11 babies.
Pulled adults. Having hard time keeping ammonia levels
down in both tanks. Changing 25% of water 2xday and
adding ACE.  Today I noticed in tank a long 1-1/2 in.
thread like worm. Is it harmfull?


Answer
Hi Gretchen,
Thank you for your letter. That's interesting, you had 11 babies. What is ACE? Is it a chemical medicine? I do not recommend using chemicals in the tank. The best method is to reduce feeding to reduce water pollution, then use Cycle (friendly bacteria) to treat the water. If you use Cycle and fill the tank with pure water (usually bottled water), then your pH and other levels will take care of themselves. Amonia usually develops due to over feeding. What good do chemicals do if the water is polluted.
Buy a bottle of Cycle, follow the instructions on the label, store in the refrigerator between use.
If the tank is in dire straits, follow the emergency instructions at the bottom of the page:
http://steamboats.com/aquarium.html
You can print out the page for future reference.
If you see any worms or parasites in the water, just remove and dispose of them.
If you want to discuss further, please write back (I'll be out for a few days).
Nori