sharon

[sharon callcott]

Soft Coral

Very nice shot!! Yes, it is possible. Sponges can outcompete corals and even put out toxins to slow the coral growth. Some sponges, especially growing in conjunction with Zoantids, can be harmful and kill the Zoanthids.

Also, sponges can have a hard time acclimating to our reef tanks. If they're on live rock that's being added to the tank, they usually die. When they die, they can become quite toxic to our systems. Sponges don't do well when exposed to air.

Unless you really like the above pictured sponge, and if you're noticing the soft coral declining, I might recommend removing that rock and removing as much of the sponge as possible from it. Make sure you do this outside of your tank though. Use a toothbrush to brush as much of it off as possible. The soft coral will be just find out of water during this procedure.

Thanks so much... I think I will take your advice..... very much appreciated

 

[sharon callcott]

One further question, in your opinions, are you sure this isn't some form of yellow haired algae?
I've done a little research, and altho it is limited to the one piece of rock pictured, I'm a little concerned it may spread.

Any advice appreciated

 

[Maxx]

Its tough to say for certain due to the resolution of the photo. Put on a disposable glove and touch it. If its rubbery and, well...spongelike....in texture, its almost certainly a sponge, If its slimy/soft with no internal support structure, its most likely a form of algae.
Sponges have an internal "skeleton" of sorts called spicules. These are small glass like slivers/needles that help support it. They can be very irritating to unprotected flesh.

Nick