White looking parasite in filter

[clownfish19372947]

Help, I found white maggot parasite looking like creatures in my marine filter and there are so many of them and am utterly freaked out. Will they get out of the tank, and what are they?

 

[Crabs McJones]

Pineapple sponges. Great filter feeders and very common

 

[clownfish19372947]

should there be that many though?

 

[Justin Cook]

Sure. They tend to hang out in the nooks and crannies and I get quite a few in my sump. Their population depends on the availability of food and could be an indication that you might have nutrient rich water. The sponges will help (a little) but if you're having other issues their large population could be an indicator as to where your problem lies.

 

[WVNed]

If they get out of hand you will have really clean water.

 

[LAReefer4Life]

+1^^^