Monti Bald spot

Shep · Oct 29, 2014

So in the last day or two I have noticed that there seems to be a bald spot on my monti, it looks like the polyps might still be there but they are closed up and a few are black. The rest of the coral looks fine, what could be the cause? I tried taking a picture but my camera does not have the resolution to be able to see the area. Also is it normal for the polyps to not be evenly distributed on the coral? They seem to be more densely packed on one side of the coral than the other. Also my levels are all with in range and have not changed recently, nothing in the tank has. Only fish in the tank are a gold assessor and green Mandarin. Thanks for the help! Posted this from my phone so please excuse any typos

Zero Nitrates · Oct 30, 2014

I have some montis that will look like they are declining for no reason, then they look fine a couple of weeks later. I figure it might be a fish nipping or crab, maybe even chemical warfare with other coral. Chances are that it will look better in a couple of weeks, if you have had no changes in water parameters.

kireek · Oct 30, 2014

Salt creep falling onto the coral may cause this.I would check for parasites as well. Montis can have different growth patterns even within the same tank.

Shep · Oct 30, 2014

Thanks, I am keeping an eye on it and will post if it gets worse

Shep · Nov 4, 2014

So it seems to be getting worse and looks like its spreading. Here are some pictures of it. I'll take any advice, its my favorite coral and was doing so well, I really do not want to lose it

Zero Nitrates · Nov 5, 2014

What is your alkalinity?

akitareefer · Nov 5, 2014

kinda looks like bug bites. Dip and see if anything comes off

Shep · Nov 5, 2014

I have never dipped a coral, what should I dip it in?

Shep · Nov 5, 2014

Zero Nitrates said:
What is your alkalinity?

I checked two days ago and it was normal, I am going to check again today. Is there a certain level I should try and adjust to?

Zero Nitrates · Nov 5, 2014

I try to keep mine between 9 and 10 dkh. The range is 7 to 11dkh.

kireek · Nov 8, 2014

Shep said:
I have never dipped a coral, what should I dip it in?

You should be able to find coral dip at your local aquarium store or online.Opinions vary about the various products available. The product called Revive would be a good choice to start with.Follow the directions carefully and then check the water out in very bright light.Coral pest are tiny and can be difficult to recognize if you are unfamiliar with them.Look closely at any specks and see if they resemble Brown worms or white slugs.