Turbatrix aceti

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Vinegar eel
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Animalia Phylum: Nemotoda Class: Secernentea Order: Rhabditida Genus: Turbatrix Species: T. aceti
Binomial name
Turbatrix aceti
Synonyms
Anguillula aceti

Turbatrix aceti (Vinegar eels, Vinegar nematode) are free-living nematodes that feed on the microbial culture, called mother of vinegar that is used to create vinegar and may continue to persist in unfiltered vinegar.

Although they are harmless and non-parasitic, leaving eels in vinegar is considered objectionable and is not permitted in vinegar bottled for consumers in the United States^[1]. Manufacturers normally filter and pasteurize their product prior to bottling to prevent the eels from occurring.

Vinegar eels are often given to fry (baby fish) as a live food, like microworms.

[edit] External links

• Vinegar Eels (Home of the Rainbowfish)

[edit] References

1. ^ FDA: Sec. 525.825 Vinegar, Definitions - Adulteration with Vinegar Eels (CPG 7109.22)