The water tank we use at our country-side home got infested with bloodworms. Is it safe to continue using it?

Question

We use the water from the tank for daily purposes, like cooking and bath. And there are these thin red worms that come out of it and they swim in an 8-like shape on the bottom of the water. I guess they are bloodworms. I was wondering whether it is safe to continue using the water? And what would you suggest to do to get rif of these intrusive creatures?

Answer 1

I'd say no way. These are gnat larvae and if they can get in there, there's no telling what else has got into the water.

Answer 2

what is your tank made from? I would immediately stop using the tank, have it fully cleaned. along with all pipework etc. My speciality is in GRP tanks as i work for a company that supplies and manufactures them, if this is the case i should be able to assist you more.

Answer 3

I would say no to using it to be honest.. I'd drain the entire tank flush the pipe work.. Take the empty tank out and sterilise it.

Answer 4

They won't hurt you. They are just midge larvae. They live in  the silt at the bottom of water. If you're concerned, boil any tank water you intend to drink or brush your teeth with. Chlorine will kill them, so if you really want rid of them, find out about how chlorine you should add to your tank to purify the water (sorry I don't have any info on this), then afterwards, keep the tank tightly covered to stop more midges getting in and laying eggs.

Answer 5

Fish absolutely love bloodworms. Some fish in there would sort them out fast.

But seriously, the bloodworms don't have a long life. If you can cover the tank to stop flies getting in there then the bloodworms will go away too.