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Oscar parasite

I just got back from vacation and noticed small white parasites that look like worms with black dot heads in my tank. I have a 55 gallon tank with one large and one medium oscar. The worms or whatever they are called are everywhere. What do I need to do other than a complete tank cleaning to help with this problem?

• Please clarify for us if the "worms" are in the gravel or are they attached to your oscar? It makes a big difference in terms of treatment. Is it possible that your fish were overfed while you were on vacation? What do your water parameters look like?

• Anchor Worm-Threadlike worm hanging from fish. Base of worm may be red. Cause A parasitic crustacean. Use Parasite medication. Use heavy aeration, as dead parasites may cause water to become cloudy.
  Black Spot- Small black specks on skin.Cause Small fish worms. Use Parasite medication. Use heavy aeration, as dead parasites may cause water to become cloudy.
  I found both on the web and since both suggest parasite meds I think you should probably treat your tank.

• well barb good point..I never thought of maybe a live food gnat larva thing going on....I was thinking it was on the fish itself...

• oh..oh...sounds like anchor worm(lernea)....be sure to check this site for info...but this is a hard one.. you can remove the fish and treat with potassium permangnate(dab on) or anti-parsitic meds such as Paragon,fluke tabs,clout Paragon or trifon....