help please! what is this pink stuff

[lov4boxers]

We are new to saltwater. My husband has done a lot of researching on different stuff. But we have this pinkish color stuff that is growing in the live rock and it looks like it is rubbery. On the front side of the rock as you can see in the photo, it looks like strings hanging off the rock. On the other rock on the back side it looks as if we have a water fall of pink (bubble gum) running and webbing. can anyone tell me what it could be and if so, is it good or bad????

 

[pyithar]

look like sponges to me. i think they're harmless.

 

[rt67ghy]

Yes i agree that looks like sponge. They filter feed and grow mostly on undersides of rocks. If left unchecked they will spread and can become unsightly but can be removed using a sharp knife if you don't mind taking your rocks out of the water to do it. If you decide to do this remember to thoroughly rinse the rocks with tank water so bad organic compounds from the sponges don't enter your tank.

 

[kmbyrnes]

I've noticed the same things in my reef over the last 2 months. Like all the creatures in our tanks, I find them interesting and try not to worry too much about them. They are going to be self limiting, based on the available food and light supply.
Your tank will go though many stages on its way to being mature.
Observe, research, ask questions and enjoy!


Great sponge ID site: http://www.spongeguide.org/index.php

This is the closest match I have found on mine:

Agelas conifera

http://www.spongeguide.org/thumbs/00075/01744.jpg