Growth of Zoas

[Brettm3535]

I have noticed this weird bubble like growth on my Zoas for a while now. They still seem to be opening and closing normally, this growth also comes and goes and when it gets bigger the zoas retract like the picture shows. When this growth goes smaller they all open back up. Just seeing what this is and what should I do about it? Thanks

 

[Brettm3535]

Another pic

 

[potterjon]

looks like green bubble algae to me from the pic. Try and remove it without bursting it. If it bursts, it will release more spores into the water.

 

[cloak]

Bubble algae. Try to pick them off the rock without popping them if you can. It should be fairly easy. Just kind of roll it from side to side and it should break free.

http://reefkeeping.com/issues/2002-02/hcj/feature/index.php

 

[Brettm3535]

Thanks guys.

 

[potterjon]

I don't know why I didn't think of it sooner but you can just pull that plug out of the tank to get the bubble algae off.

 

[dublo8]

lightly grab it with some tweezers and twist it. Don't squeeze it hard or it will burst like previously mentioned.

 

[chuckdallas]

I just removed one, but the bubble burst, so I guess I'll be picking up new bubbles in a 2-3 weeks. Ugh!! I'll be more gentle next time.

 

[cloak]

They do reproduce when they're popped but I've never thought this was that big of a deal. If you have to get rid of some in the future just try to do it right before a water change. This will limit the amount of spores left behind in the DT. Good luck.

 

[BigRick]

+1 on bubble aglea

 

[potterjon]

I have seen when it becomes a huge infestation to the point that the owners almost broke down the tank. It can be a real problem sometimes.