help with ID?

scsi · #1 09-27-2007, 06:10 PM

Found this newest hitch hiker today... looks like a star of some sort

Also I'v noticed these growing on the rock... Almost looks like tufts of hair, but doesn't looks like algae

Lastly, I noticed that one piece of rock that was covered with purple coralline is starting to turn white on the surface that faces the MH 150's... any ideas on what might be causing that?

Der_Iron_Chef · #2 09-27-2007, 06:18 PM

The first is definitely a starfish, of the harmless variety. No worries.

The second...difficult to tell, but COULD be hydroids...in which case...umm. Not good. Do some research on them and try to get a clearer picture if possible! They should be eradicated immediately and aggressively or they will spread and sting the @$#% out of everything.

scsi · #3 09-27-2007, 06:41 PM

they don't look like any hyroid I'v ever seen... they dont have the classic tentacle umbrella that I'v seen before.... Threy almost look like fuzzy brown tufts....

Pier Pressure · #4 09-27-2007, 08:26 PM

The first picture is a brittle star. They are harmless. I have what seems like thousands in my tank and they are definitely harmless as Drew already pointed out. I am having a hard time seeing the second - but could it be that aptasia (sp.?) stuff?

scsi · #5 09-27-2007, 08:32 PM

no... I don't think it's that either... sigh... I'll try to get a better picture tonight

findingnemo1 · #6 09-27-2007, 09:23 PM

The tufts of stuff is a form of hair algae. I had it in my tank and my purle tang ate it all in about 5 min. So it must be something they like.

Your corraline is bleaching from the light. Mine did that as we'll when the 400 watt halides went on the tank. It will come back in time. Just needs to re adjust to the lights.

Craig