Strange Growths, need help.

[ejordan]

I've got some seriously strange buildup in my tank, and I need some assistance is identifying it. During the past 2 months I've been extreemely busy with my new company, and unfortunately allowed the water quality of my tank to decline. I now have more time and I am determined to repair the well-being of my tank.

I've noticed that in the column of my protein skimmer, and on the tank's back walls there is an abundance of growths which look similar to maggots, but they dont appear to be moving. They simply stick out from the tank walls and look almost like little white cocoons. There are more in my protien skimmer than in the tank itself. What would be the best way to remove these items and prevent the growth of them in the future?

 

[npaden]

It sounds like they are either small sponges or possibly feather dusters. If they are hard and crunchy they are feather dusters, if they are soft then they are sponges.

Either way they are beneficial to your tank in my opinion and were just trying to help you filter some of the bacteria or nutrients out of the water.

You might have prevented them from growing in the past by cleaning out your skimmer or cleaning the glass on the aquarium. If you think they are unsightly you can simply remove them, otherwise you can let them continue to help you with your water quality.

FWIW, Nathan

 

[esmithiii]

They are small sponges and are entirely beneficial to your tank. What are your water parameters, particularly the ones you are worried about?

E

 

[HARRISON]

I had the same thing happen when I moved a bunch of rock around in my tank. Most people replied with featherdusters which I think is correct. After about a month though alot have dissapeared. I think they were probably taken care of by the HERMIT CRABS. (which I personally ike in my tank)