Transparent Blob ID

Fish.Bum00 · Feb 12, 2020

Found this blob on my rock last night. In the pic it almost looks like a star shape. Moves very slowly. Initially thought it was part of the super glue used to secure rocks.

Anybody have thoughts on an ID?

Ron Reefman · Feb 12, 2020

From the photo and the fact that it moves slowly, I'd agree with your call, an Asterina Sea Star.

Nburg's Reef · Feb 12, 2020

I’d second that. Most are harmless but some have reported that some may eat Zoas... or maybe just eating dying Zoas.

Fishy212 · Feb 12, 2020

They are not a big deal if there are a few. If their numbers are not kept in check, they will eventually overrun your tank. They are considered a Pest hitchhiker.

Nburg's Reef · Feb 12, 2020

Fishy212 said:
They are not a big deal if there are a few. If their numbers are not kept in check, they will eventually overrun your tank. They are considered a Pest hitchhiker.

The nice thing is that since they move very slowly, they’re easy to pull out 10-15 at a time to reduce numbers.

Ron Reefman · Feb 12, 2020

Fishy212 said:
They are not a big deal if there are a few. If their numbers are not kept in check, they will eventually overrun your tank. They are considered a Pest hitchhiker.

Some are, some are not. I have always had a few in my tank and 90% of the time they move up onto the glass. If they stay down on the rocks and up close to corals I'd be a lot more suspicious.

CuzzA · Feb 12, 2020

I will add if you have a clean tank their numbers do not multiply at infestation levels. I have only seen one in my tank and this system has been up since October. My tank is clean.

Those who have an explosion of them in their tank likely have a dirty tank, usually from the new tank uglies and so they've got a bad wrap. The only coral I've heard some species eating are zoas and it could very well be because the corals weren't doing well.

I've never had any eat anything but algae.

Fish.Bum00 · Feb 12, 2020

Thanks everyone for the quick replies. Tank is only been cycled for about 2 months. Seeing lots of pods and other creatures popping up now. Just wanted to make sure I'm keeping the tank clean of the anecdotal monster I've been reading about.