What kind of algae is this one???

[sensei]

I have a FOWLR tank that is 3 years old.
live rocks does not grow GHA but if has this other kind of algae.
It doe sn ot bother me but I would like to know what is it and if there is a fish or CUC that would eat it.

here are the photos. it is white
Thanks

 

[nautical_nathaniel]

Those actually may be a type of sponge

 

[sensei]

the pink you see in the photo is corraline, I am talking white stuff that looks like roots in there.
here is a better photo.
thanks

 

[nautical_nathaniel]

That's what I'm talking about as well.

 

[sensei]

ok, how could I confirm? should I take a look under a microscope?
do you have any idea of its name??

thanks

 

[reef lover]

I'm also thinking sponge...but I don' know the species. Try increasing flow and see if they're still as happy.

 

[nautical_nathaniel]

ok, how could I confirm? should I take a look under a microscope?
do you have any idea of its name??

thanks

In my experience, if you touch it and it has almost a stiff-ish, rubbery, but also kind of rough texture, it's a sponge. It might be a good idea to put on an examination glove first because I've heard of some people getting itchy in their fingers/hand after touching a sponge.

Some reefers strive to have this stuff in their tank and it looks like you've got quite the crop haha

 

[sensei]

Nautical,

Only the rocks in the display have this, the onces in the sump do not.
If I confirm this is benefitial, I could move one rock from my FOWLR to my 600g system, but I need to be sure first.

I will try to feel the texture and let you know, thanks