Insect Issues

[Tod Norris]

I recently bought a used aquarium Amonth after setting it up I noticed white flys on the top of the water. They seem harmless. They seem to get stuck on the glass under the light. Does anyone know how I got them or how to get rid of them ? Thanks Tod

[Dave66]

They are mites feeding on the biofilm on the top of the water. Several fish foods contain fish oil, which collects on the top of the water over time, and the mites show up to eat the microorganisms that are feeding on the oil.

The mites are harmless, and good fish food if one of your fishes nabs one. But, if you want to remove the oil run clean pieces of paper over the top of the water. Depending on the size of your tank, it can take several pieces of paper to remove all the oil. You could also switch to another brand of fish food that doesn't contain fish oil.

Welcome to the forum by the way.

Dave

[Rue]

A picture would help!

Insects or mites aren't usually an issue in fish tanks...but it's still good to know what it is...