Algae/maybe sponge identification needed

[kalgra]

I started a 350 gallon system with figi tukani live rock about 4-5 months ago. The live rock cured for about 2 months prior to going into the tank and the tank went through an algae stage that I typically expect with a new tank and went away on its own.

Since then I have been adding one or two fish at a time every month or so as they finish the quarantine period. I have been taking this tank very slow and have added no other live stock other than a few crabs and snails.

Today I noticed what looks like a smaller yellowish brown version of bubble algae but its smaller and there is enough of it to make me want to ID and treat if necessary. It has almost a cauliflower like texture and does look a bit like something called sea cauliflower I found online.

I'm sure the rock is still leaching phosphates from dead organics in the rock. Anyone know what this is? Honestly is could be algae or some sort of sponge. I've been in the hobby for a while now and have never come across this before.

These are the best pics I could get of it.

 

[kalgra]

Bump

Anyone?

 

[Bent]

It looks like a form of sponge I've run into before, but I can't recall the species off hand. If I'm not mistaken they are like pineapple sponges and will eventually die out.

 

[kalgra]

It looks like a form of sponge I've run into before, but I can't recall the species off hand. If I'm not mistaken they are like pineapple sponges and will eventually die out.

Thanks! That would be nice

 

[kalgra]

Bump

Anyone else have any ideas?

Thanks!

 

[cloak]

How does it feel to the touch? Somewhat abrasive, or kind of gelatinous?

 

[kalgra]

How does it feel to the touch? Somewhat abrasive, or kind of gelatinous?

Its is very gelatinous and almost bubble like in texture. Thanks for your reply.

 

[kalgra]

feels kind of slimy to the touch

 

[cloak]

Oh ok. Some sort of algae would be my guess then. Maybe the two links below will help. GL.

http://www.reefcleaners.org/nuisance-algae-id-guide

http://www.saltcorner.com/AquariumLibrary/browsesection.php

 

[kalgra]

Oh ok. Some sort of algae would be my guess then. Maybe the two links below will help. GL.

http://www.reefcleaners.org/nuisance-algae-id-guide

http://www.saltcorner.com/AquariumLibrary/browsesection.php

Thanks for the links. So far I have not found any websites on types of algae that seem to be a match. Its quite a head scratcher.

I might have to just try manual removal if it doesn't go away on its own. Currently have a very small bioload and am running copious amounts of GFO which could be the cause of additional phosphates leaching from the rock and providing a food source.

 

[cloak]

Yeah, just try to remove what you can with your hands first and then use a wire brush for the remainder. Make sure to do this right before a water change though. Also, epoxy works wonders. (smother it) GL.