Reef Discussion

[chris B]

Hi there,
This has been in my tank now for around 2 yrs and not sure what they are and -how they feed, i havent been able to find out what they are as well. Can you help please id these corals

 

[Josh M]

Palythoa

 

[DavidS]

Do they normally open up more than that?

 

[chris B]

yes they would open up more than that, i have to get around to getting the mights replaced soon on this tank.

 

[DavidS]

OK - that's alright then. I'd be worried if palys didn't open up - they're pretty tough.

 

[chris B]

thanks guys for id them for me, i was concern they were a pest to have in the tank

 

[DavidS]

thanks guys for i.d them for me, i was concern they were a pest to have in the tank

Hahaha - some people dislike it as various palys can be a little boring looking, and can grow well, but that's a different issue. Certainly nothing to worry about.

 

[DavidS]

Forgot to mention - palythoa may contain palytoxin, which is a neurotoxin. Don't get too close with open cuts on your hands, and if you take it out of water, consider some eye protection as they may squirt you. My preference is to wear some gloves if I get too close to mine - my cat is playful, so gloves are good. Nothing to panic about - just know that you need to be a little careful around them on the off chance.