Black worms in canister sponge?

[rfraser]

I was cleaning my 405 canister sponges by rinsing them in water from the aguarium and there was all these black spots inside the sponges (foam) that would not rinse out. After further investigation buy cutting the foam open there were these black worms that looked like black leaches but they would grow longer buy extending from the inside out. Thier diameter was larger than a smilie face . Any idea what they might be? I left them there , should take them out ? Up and running for 8 weeks.

Appreciate any help,Thanks,Rob.

 

[Travis L. Stevens]

You'll most likely have to take a picture and post it here.

 

[Paintbug]

sounds like peanut worms (Sipunculans). http://www.ronshimek.com/Animal Groups 2d Sipunculans.htm if thats the case put them in the tank. but without a pic theres no way to say 100% what they are.

 

[rfraser]

Thanks for the replies. Paintbug, thats exactly what they are to a T . Should I take these out of the filter and put them in the tank or just leave them where they might thrive with out getting eaten?

Thanks,Rob.

 

[Paintbug]

i would put them in the tank. they will do much better on the rocks, although they must have been happy where they were as well LOL.

 

[rfraser]

Thanks for the help.