Looking for confirmation - these are sponges, yes?

[mk1151]

I just wanted to verify these are pineapple sponges? I have quite a few growing, some in the overflows but mostly in the sump. None in the DT.

These are brownish but since they're in the sump before the drip filter I assume they're dirty. Tank chemistry is all good, and the population isn't exploding either.

There are a lot of amphipods swimming around down there as well. When I catch them in the floss filters I always put them into the DT - my trigger and wrasse love 'em.

The "sponges"? I never see in the DT or in the filters They are quite firmly attached to the side walls, and don't react to light or touch.

Thanks!

[Original Fin]

Not sure if those are technically sponges or tunicates, but I have them in the same areas you mentioned. I'm almost certain that they are beneficial as filter feeders. I believe they are benthic zone lifeforms, meaning they will only occupy low light areas.

[kevinpo]

Hello,
They are the commonly called Pineapple sponge and are a sponge. A beneficial addition to any aquarium. They typically disappear after a year or two as the tank matures.

Regards,
Kevin

[mk1151]

Hello,
They are the commonly called Pineapple sponge and are a sponge. A beneficial addition to any aquarium. They typically disappear after a year or two as the tank matures.

Regards,
Kevin

Thank you! Just wanted to make sure because they looked close but not identical.

I'll leave them alone and let them do their thing!