Aiptasia

Aiptasia is a type of anemone that most aquarists consider a pest. The are tiny clear anemones that can can sting other corals. They can quickly take over your aquarium in a matter of months. Aiptasia is generally introduced from live rock. They do not need feeding as they get most of their nutrients from zooxanthellae (symbiotic algae). However, they do take food from the water and an explosion can happen if you are free feeding or over feeding your tank.

The good news is Aiptasia has natural predators to keep their numbers in check and there are several methods you can use to get rid of Aiptasia. Do not try to remove them by hand as damaging their cells only makes them spread further.

1. Predators - Our favorite is the cowfish, although, difficult to keep in most aquariums as they are slow swimmers and can get diseases easily. The cowfish constantly scours the tank picking at anything edible. They are not soft coral friendly. Other predators include peppermint shrimp, and butterfly fish.

2. Chemicals - Your local pet store will carry saltwater safe treatments for Aiptasia.

3. Feeding - Free feeding usually leads to overfeeding. Try target feeding your corals and reducing the amount food. Most corals and fish only require feeding every other day.

Other Resources:

http://www.wetwebmedia.com/marine/inverts/cnidaria/anthozoa/aiptasia/aiptasia.htm

http://www.garf.org/copper/COPPERBAND2.html