sponge or algea id?

[Master Reefshi]

Hi everyone! new here! just set up a 10 gallon nano with a 5 gallon sump. got some live rock and there are some interesting things on there... got rid of some bristle worms but i noticed a white fish net like substance on the rock i purchased from a LFS. the tank has been running for about 2 weeks and i am starting to get diatoms here and there. if anyone can help me id this that would be great!

thank you!

[RayWhisperer]

It's a bryozoan.

http://www.mesa.edu.au/bryozoa/default.asp

[Master Reefshi]

HOLY! THANK YOU RAY! that would explain the white tube like things that are really close to the netting structure. i do not think its alive, tank is still in cycle but we will see! interesting animals. reef safe i hope? 

 

Thank you again!

[RayWhisperer]

They are fine. Difficult to care for if you plan on maintaining typical reef parameters. Considering this is uncured rock, it's most likely already dead. If not, it probably will be soon. 

 

http://reefkeeping.com/issues/2003-10/rs/index.php

heres an article that gives you more detail on them.

 

In the unlikely event it survives and grows, I have first dibs on any frags or even the whole colony if you get out of the hobby. I'm not holding my breath, though. 

 

[Master Reefshi]

Well lets cross our fingers! If it happens i would be more than happy to share! Quick update. The white tubes in the photo are actually starting to get some movement. I will keep an eye on them.