Noob here! Too much sand and infestation?

[Fdalamo]

I've done freshwater tanks for a few years, sold my 180 gallon for a 6g Fluval edge and wanted to try something different..so I made it into a mini reef tank. Now, I'm not sure if I have too much sand or what but it's about 30 days after the initial fill up of this tank and I'm seeing these particles cluttering the water current. (Bacteria blooming or just crap floating?) I've been doing a good 1.5 gallon change daily because of the inverts and soft corals that are in there.

Also, I've put in 6lbs of live rock in there since day one and have loads of hitch hikers.. (Brittle star fish, brittle worms, fan worms, scallops and more). The hitch hikers are very lively as well.

Now I also noticed a HUGE population explosion of these little critters, I'm thinking copepods? I don't know but, they've taken over the filter media box and are everywhere in my tank!

Don't know if these things are bad or causing the water to crap up.. help?

Thanks!

Also, I've uploaded a quick video of the tank so you can see on YouTube. If you need more pictures or any stats, I'll post 'em!

20130129_140249.mp4 - YouTube (Video of tank)

 

[islandreef]

You are thinking correct. You can buy something that would love to eat these up.

 

[Pkunk35]

Welcome Fdalamo! Beautiful tank! I like the scape.

Those are amphipods that you are seeing (i assume you are talking about them) i believe gammarus shrimp, and good sized ones too!

https://www.google.com/search?q=gam...s=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a

Very beneficial as detrivores, algae eaters and as food for fish, coral.

 

[chrissreef]

they are fine and aren't causing water issues

 

[Fdalamo]

Thanks for all the quick info! It's very much appreciated!

Ok, what could I get that would eat these little suckers? Also, seeing how life is exploding, is it safe to add livestock? I just have plans for one clown.