Bubble algae stuck in between polyps of a Clove Polyp: how to safely remove?

[testuser]

My Clove Polyp came with bubble algae and I didn't realize it at the time due to not knowing what it is. Clove polyps are pretty fragile, and the bubble algae is really hard and stuck pretty hard. Pulling it would tear the soft coral. Are there any safe recommendations for how to remove it?

 

[ScottJ]

Use tweezers to pull it off or pop it? You won't hurt the coral if your careful.

 

[testuser]

Use tweezers to pull it off or pop it? You won't hurt the coral if your careful.

They're so soft, it looks like it could tear the soft coral. I've also read that there is a potential that popping it could cause spores to spread. But popping it wouldn't help with removal in either case.

If there's an alternative solution, that would be great. Does anything outcompete it in terms of utilizing resources from a biological perspective?

 

[testuser]

Bump. Any other thoughts besides manually removing it? It will (and has) torn the coral. This is impossible.

 

[iceman14555]

Bump. Any other thoughts besides manually removing it? It will (and has) torn the coral. This is impossible.

Every emerald crab I've ever had had eaten bubble algae. It's a natural cleaner and they can get places you can't. I recommend at least one in a tank. If you have a large tank you can have more. Reef cleaners offers a great clean up crew package that includes these little guys.