Gold Torch being overrun by sponge

[gobeach]

My Gold Torch hasn't been looking the greatest lately and on one of the heads the tissue is receding. I believe I've figured out what the problem is - there's a beautiful purple sponge that's been growing "with" the torch but now I believe it's actually harming the torch. I suspect what I need to do is to cut the sponge away from the torch but thought I'd see if there are any other thoughts out here. If cutting the sponge away from the torch is the right approach, I'd welcome any suggestions on just how to do that.

 

[NanaReefer]

Looks obvious to me that the sponge gotta go

 

[always reefin]

take the sponge out

 

[evolved]

Use a scalpel to cut chunks of the sponge away.

 

[-Logzor]

I would pop the torch off, clean off the sponge really well and relocated it. The purple sponge might be difficult to totally eradicate unless you epoxy over the entire thing, which would be easier with the torch coral relocated. Or you could just keep the sponge there if you relocated the torch.

 

[gobeach]

I cut the torch away from the sponge, cleaned most of the sponge off the side of the torch and relocated the torch. I think at least one head of the torch is a goner, but the other larger head that was starting to split has a better chance. Time will tell. Any suggestions on some tlc for a better recovery?

 

[tektite]

Food, mysis is great, will give the coral a boost.