Is this a sponge?

[LardLad]

Is this a sponge growing on this crab? Looks like a little brain. Def not coralline algae.

 

[Phycodurus]

very much appears to be so. now you have a little critter to check-up on in your tank.

 

[Auquanut]

Looks like a sponge to me. A purdy one too.

 

[LardLad]

Do I have to do anything special? Is it going to become a nuisance in my Nano

 

[Sosuke]

How old is your tank?

 

[LardLad]

How old is your tank?

6 months

 

[LardLad]

How old is your tank?

Pretty good shape tho. 90% coralline algae coverage on Pukani. Stable params. Im trying.

 

[Sosuke]

The sponge might be fine without feedings than, I wouldn't imagine there would be a reason for it to die than

 

[LardLad]

I just read that they have to have very low light and high current or be placed under a shady overhang. I just can't believe it has been surviving on the shell of this crab. Considering they are always traveling around

 

[Sosuke]

Thats why they thrive possibly with all of the current changes bringing it food. Sponges are a challenge if not kept in their species tanks sometimes. This mostly has to do with having to feed phtyto for them to eat. I would say as long as its on your crab its gonna live

 

[LardLad]

Thats why they thrive possibly with all of the current changes bringing it food. Sponges are a challenge if not kept in their species tanks sometimes. This mostly has to do with having to feed phtyto for them to eat. I would say as long as its on your crab its gonna live

Thanks. Im gonna let it be.

 

[vetteguy53081]

It is a red ball sponge and a colorful filter feeder. Keep away from coral as they get stung easily

 

[LardLad]

It is a red ball sponge and a colorful filter feeder. Keep away from coral as they get stung easily

Do you mean the coral will sting the sponge? Sorry for ignorants.
Haha

 

[vetteguy53081]

Do you mean the coral will sting the sponge? Sorry for ignorants.
Haha

Some coral mainly ones with feeders/feelers

 

[LardLad]

Got it. Yep that crab is lounging under my Torch right now.

 

[Cl0wnfish]

Make sure if you ever move that crab from the tank that it doesn’t see air. Sponges can’t be exposed to air!!

 

[Phycodurus]

+1 on being careful never to expose a sponge to air (or microbubbles in the water column).

also be aware that the hermit may eventually ditch that shell for another and you’ll be scratching yr head wondering where the shell went.