Removing Aiptasia from reef tanks

February 7, 2000
From: Peter Myers

Recently, I have heard that certain nudibranchs are very good as a natural predators of Aiptasia in reef tanks.

Of the three species that I have been told of:
1) Berghia verrucicornis
2) Baeolidia nodosa
3) Spurilla neapolitana
which would be the best choice in not destroying living corals but preying on Aiptasia? Concerning the availability of this species, where in California could you recommend that I call to locate them?

Thank You
Peter Myers

elsation@ix.netcom.com

Myers, P., 2000 (Feb 7) Removing Aiptasia from reef tanks. [Message in] Sea Slug Forum. Australian Museum, Sydney. Available from http://www.seaslugforum.net/find/1871

Dear Peter,
To those of you who are new to the Forum, and haven't sampled the continuing Aiptasia correspondence, Aiptasia is a sea anemone that grows like a weed in aquaria. Peter, if you look at the messages below yours on this page, you will find an interesting discussion on the subject.

All the aeolid nudirbanchs you have in your list above feed on sea anemones so they are all potentially useful. Nudibranchs, on the whole, are very specific feeders, so anemone eaters are unlikely to feed on hard or soft corals. However your best bet is Berghia verrucicornis because, as you will see in the messages below, there are a couple of suppliers breeding them for sale in the USA.

However, a word of caution. Biological control is fraught with danger! One of our correspondents became so attached to their Berghia that they felt rather guilty when there were no Aiptasia left and their Berghia began to starve. If you have a soft spot, perhaps you should keep a few Aiptasia in a holding tank so that you can keep your Berghia alive until the next sea anemone infestation.

Best wishes,
Bill Rudman.

Rudman, W.B., 2000 (Feb 7). Comment on Removing Aiptasia from reef tanks by Peter Myers. [Message in] Sea Slug Forum. Australian Museum, Sydney. Available from http://www.seaslugforum.net/find/1871

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