Removing sponge

[GCL]

I noticed this sponge growing on the back of my rock a little while back. I noticed it was releasing lots of little bits into the water and I also saw some threads mentioning sponges having negative effects on corals. So I decided to pull it off the rock. Only problem was that it was really stuck on there. I pulled as much of it off as possible but there is still some material left. I assume if left as is it will just grow back. I’m just looking for advice. Should I be worried about it coming back and is it in fact a problem for corals? If so, any suggestions on how to fully remove it? Kalk paste maybe? Thanks, any input is appreciated.

 

[Auquanut]

Looks like a pineapple sponge. They're filter feeders and good for the tank. I've never had an issue with them bothering corals, and in fact, I've been told they are an indication of a healthy system.

 

[saltyhog]

I have never heard of sponges having any negative effect on corals. I have always regarded them as harmless and possibly beneficial filter feeders. Let's see if any of the guys have any info that contradicts what I thought.

#reefsquad

 

[GooseCommander]

Only negative I've heard is if they start growing up through or around smaller corals and outcompete them or smother them. But if it's not close to your corals, I wouldn't worry about it.

 

[GCL]

Looks like a pineapple sponge. They're filter feeders and good for the tank. I've never had an issue with them bothering corals, and in fact, I've been told they are an indication of a healthy system.

I have never heard of sponges having any negative effect on corals. I have always regarded them as harmless and possibly beneficial filter feeders. Let's see if any of the guys have any info that contradicts what I thought.

#reefsquad

Thanks for the replies! Hoping I just got over zealous. I had heard from a local reefer to remove sponges then I saw threads mentioning potential for them releasing toxins or encroaching on corals. I just envisioned all the “spores” it was releasing taking over.

 

[Katrina71]

I'd leave it.

 

[Beonedge]

inject vinegar (i use 99%) inside the sponge and it will bleach and die in few days

 

[CindyKz]

All sorts of sponges in my systems, I never had a problem and I've never heard of them bothering anything.