IDing sponge-like red tube

[llamadolly]

Hello, can anyone identify these strange red tube-like structures growing on my live rock? There are about a dozen of them and the largest is maybe a 1/4" tall.

 

[AlSimmons]

Some type of sponge would be my guess. A Tunicate/Sea Squirt is definitely a possibility too though.

 

[llamadolly]

Wanted to add in case it isn't clear from the photo, but they are kind of barnacle-like in shape. Most are standalone.

 

[AlSimmons]

How do they feel to the touch? Hard, soft, abrasive, slimy etc?

 

[llamadolly]

I can't easily touch them because of their location but when brushed with the end of a feeding stick they feel like they're probably soft (I didn't want to press hard) and they immediately flattened against the rock when touched, which makes me think tunicate?