Tubifex worms have physical characteristics that allow them to survive in areas of very low dissolved oxygen or heavily polluted water. Tubifex worms are commonly found in the sediment of lakes and rivers. They may also filter feed by extending a mucous net to capture particles from water. In nature, Tubifex worms eat sediment and selective bacteria using their muscular body to create water currents into the mouth. Tubifex are often bright red due to hemoglobin-rich cells. Tubifex worms may grow up to 15 centimeters in length with a general body diameter of approximately 1 millimeter and are often bright red due to their hemoglobin-rich cells. Also, the physical appearance of Tubifex worms may vary depending upon factors such as what they are eating and the salinity levels present. The term “Tubifex” is a broad/general term and likely includes many genera and species, however differentiating these at a taxonomic level is not warranted from a practical standpoint in wastewater treatment. Finding where the area of settled out sludge is located is often the most challenging issue for addressing long term issues.
Short-term solutions may involve physical removal (jetting, vac trucks etc.) and chlorination. Long-term solutions for Tubifex worms involve preventing the ability for sludge to settle out of the process and decay. Common areas in which Tubifex worms are reported include collection systems, post-treatment equalization basins, tertiary filters, and dead spots of aeration basins in which there is settled out sludge. Generally, the root cause of Tubifex worms is the presence of septic/decaying sludge somewhere within the system.
Tubifex worms are unique in that they are visible by the human eye as red or pink tinted worms and sometimes can plug filters and pumps. Get Laboratory articles, news and videos right in your inbox! Sign up now.
0 kommentar(er)
