What is this?

[bchdFLdian]

Don't we all love these IDs...

This came in on a rock with the tank, it fell off. It feels slimy to touch. At first, the edges were receding and turning white/clear now they're filling back out like normal. So, what the heck is it?

Thanks!

 

[chriscurtis]

It looks like some kind of gelatinous red macroalgae. It should be benign. I'll see if I can find any pictures.

Here's one: http://www.reef.crc.org.au/discover/plantsanimals/algae/

And here's a whole section on marine algae identification at wetwebmedia:
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/maralgidfaq2.htm

 

[bchdFLdian]

Thanks Chris!

Maybe I can find some tangs to feed it to wuahaha!

 

[Servo]

I agree with Chris. I think it is a type of Gracilia (spelling). I had the same thing the first year I had a tank and I was scared to death of it. I picked it out and later got a tang. It never grew back. :sad: