starfish in zoas? Irritant?

[Hungriee]

I have these zebra (blk white) legged starfish. They have skinny thread like legs and are found between and under my zoas on frags or rock rubbles. I noticed they extend their legs once in awhile and have made some of my zoas close up when out. The frags are still healthy but wondering if this is becoming an irritant? I tried using a tong to pull them out - but unable to do so. I'm only able to get a few off my koralia powerhead.

Is there a dip to remove them if harmful?

 

[jaa1456]

They sound like bristle stars and they are not harmful. Hopefully they will move from the zoa rock to a new one.

 

[Hungriee]

im not sure how I got them but now they are growing exponentially.

 

[DHaut]

Common hitchhiker and very beneficial to your tank. I wouldn't worry about the zoas, they'll get used to it. The stars eat detritus and leftover food and help keep the water clear and clean.

 

[bizarrecorals]

a picture might help