Chicki-to answer your thought in short, all tanks contain some type of bacteria. Some can be harmful to humans which in turn can cause many types of infections. I use an extra long siphon hose, that way I have plenty of time to see the siphon coming so I avoid a mouth full of water. I also use gloves when handling certain types of corals. Below I also cut out this section of an interesting article by Eric Borneman in the archives of Aquarium Frontiers. :shock:
The discovery several years ago of an unnamed Vibrio (type AK-1) as an agent of coral bleaching was the first record of Vibrio pathogenicity in corals. In a high temperature-dependent situation, this strain causes patchy bleaching in the Red Sea coral Oculina patagonica and perhaps others. Brown (1997) and Peters (1997) have both commented that, despite the implications of a Vibrio role in bleaching, the circumstances of this case are somewhat extenuating. Vibrio spp. are a unique bacterial constituent of marine and estuarine environments. They have become quite infamous because of their tendency toward virulence and pathogenicity in humans and ornamental fish. Certainly, they can be quite dangerous and care should be exercised when working with aquariums, specifically corals and substrates where these microbes tend to exist prolifically. Cuts and openings in the skin should be protected, with hand washing using a true antibacterial soap performed after handling or working in aquarium water. Any cuts or abrasions that occur from working in an aquarium should be immediately attended to with antibiotic applications. Lethargy, diarrhea or other unusual health problems following in-tank work should be treated seriously.
Not only are Vibrio spp. a potential danger in aquaria, but there are many other genera that have equally dangerous potentials for infection and disease. Nonetheless, it should be apparent that the thought of Vibrio spp. in the aquarium should not be met with trepidation, but understanding. These bacteria play a number of important roles in marine habitats, from denitrification to providing settlement cues and acting as trophical resources for many organisms. Their presence is normal to the environment, and, we hope that understanding these bacteria will allow them to be met with less fear and a greater appreciation of their role and presence both in the wild and in marine aquaria.
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