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Is this safe in my aquarium?

25 9:29:56

Question

Little White Thingy
I don't know what this little white thingy is and whether or not it should remain in my aquarium.  I took this picture and have to apologize for the lack of clarity.  I took the picture on my iPhone through my son's play magnifying glass. (Hey, it's the best I had at the time.) This tiny creature is about 3/32" long and about 3/64" wide with white tennacles hanging down.  It is secured to the glass of my aquarium where I first saw it this afternoon.  I'm sure it wasn't there this morning.  Do you know what it is and is it safe for my aquarium?
Thanks,
Dale

Answer
Hi Dale,

Great question.

From the image I believe what you are seeing is Planaria, also known as a (Flatworm). Planaria are non-parasitic flatworms of the biological family Planariidae, belonging to the order Seriata. Planaria are common to many parts of the world, living in both saltwater and freshwater ponds and rivers.
The saltwater species of the flatworms are virtually harm-less, provide a cleaning service by eating uneaten fish food, and provide a food source for many marine animals.

I believe you don't have much to worry about, as long as they don't multiply to the point where they are clogging your filters and/or overflows.

Regards,
David

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