Start siphon with airline tubing

[poissonkimbo]

I have those little red flatworms in my tank. It's not bad yet, and I read that one way to keep them in check is to manually remove them with airline tubing. My only question is how do I start the siphon in the tubing. I've never had luck doing it with my mouth, and I don't really fancy doing it with my mouth with actual tank water. Any advice? I've tried using the siphon that I use for water changes, but the end is to big to suck the bugs up.

[syrinx]

Put all the tubing in water, work out any air bubbles. Leave one end in water, and cap other end with your thumb as you bring it out of tank and below level of bottom of tank. Release thumb and your going.

[poissonkimbo]

Thanks!

[MondoBongo]

after the last time i got a big nasty mouth full of tank water i bought one of these:

http://www.amazon.com/Python-Squeeze-Starter-Aquarium-Adapter/dp/B0017JHPA6

i'm more than slightly ashamed i never thought to try what syrinx suggested.

[PanicBuyer]

If you have a sink nearby these are handy as well.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000255NXC/ref=s9_simh_gw_p199_d0_i5?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-2&pf_rd_r=1BN4BN2501MTVCP8T90A&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=1688200382&pf_rd_i=507846

[poissonkimbo]

No sink nearby. However, that python adapter might be just what I need. Syrinx's idea is cheaper, but messier, and there is already a little damage on my hardwood where I spilled saltwater and didnt notice it until the damage was done. I try to avoid splashing.

[MondoBongo]

one thing i like about the python siphon starter is that i can use it to start the siphon on my HOB overflow as well.

when i need to remove the air from the U-tubes to get the overflow rolling it comes in handy.

[dkeller_nc]

Instead of a siphon, you might consider using a syringe with a piece of airline tubing attached. You can usually buy the big 60 mL syringes at most pharmacies, sometimes in grocery stores.

A commercial version that works on the same principle is Julian Sprung's "Thing".

[syrinx]

I piece of rigid airline such as what they sell for undergravel filters, makes for a good wand. Much easier to pinpoint the worms. Just cut it to a reasonable length for your tank depth, and attach the flexible tubing. Personally, airline is the easiest siphon to start. Practice at the sink with fresh water!

[Rob0910]

+1 on big syringe and air tube hosing.