Candy cane coral dark spots

[moorjames]

I’ve noticed a couple dark spots on a few heads of the candy cane coral- and Wasn’t sure if it’s something to be concerned about. All the parameters are in my normal range, the tank is about 3 months old and I’ve had this in my tank for about 1.5-2 months now. I’ve been having a little diatom algae show up here and there on the glass and sand (nothing crazy) and I usually clean it within a couple days. It’s a Biocube 32 and I do a 5 gallon water change (reef crystals) about every 4-7 days. So I wasn’t sure if it’s diatoms showing up on the heads or if it’s stressed or dying.
All inputs appreciated

 

[moorjames]

Any input is appreciated :)

 

[HB AL]

They look fine other than they are all closed up. I have 3 different types of candy canes and they are always puffed up and full. Something could be slightly off in your water params causing them to be receded. I wouldnt worry about it to much unless they always stay like that or you start to see exposed skeleton. Heres a few pics of what mine look like.

 

[moorjames]

oh jeez- I’ve never see these that inflated. Even when I got the from the lfs they never looked as good as yours. Ok- I appreciate your help. At least I know what to shoot for now

 

[Streetlamp]

They don't look too bad. Is that aptasia on them though?

 

[vetteguy53081]

Yes- aptasia and could be stinging them
Using a syringe which will reach down in the crevices, inject hot water or kalkwasser powder mixed into a thin paste into their center core

 

[moorjames]

Holy jeez! I have tons of those! I thought it was part of the coral... wow- thanks for the heads up. I had no idea