What do copepods look like?

[erinf911]

I just noticed some tiny (really really really tiny) white things on my tank glass. It is so hard to describe. They have discernable arms (12 or so) and a puffy little middle section. Any idea what these could be? Thanks everyone. :notsure:

 

[ophiura]

Hmmm, do they move? Are they dots with legs all around or more like little bugs?

 

[erinf911]

They are more like dots with little legs around them.

 

[kaotik]

checkout the hitchikers threads, there are a couple in there that sound like what you are describing.

 

[erinf911]

I checked out the hitchhiker... it looks like a jelly fish but more fuzzy.

 

[ophiura]

I am thinking it might be Staurocladia..."dots with legs"
From Dr. Shimek's site:

 

[erinf911]

Those are it!! What are they?

 

[kaotik]

Yeah, harmless. They should go away.

 

[ophiura]

They are a hydroid jellyfish that crawl around, and typically "bloom" in a tank for awhile and then disappear entirely. I wouldn't worry about them

 

[erinf911]

So I have no worries? They wont hurt my fish or anything? Thanks for all your help.

 

[ophiura]

I don't believe you have anything to worry about. I've seen them pop up once in awhile...and then totally disappear without a trace.