Filter feeder off soft coral

[oxo]

Have never seen this before and want to confirm its identity. Retracts when disturbed.

 

[ISpeakForTheSeas]

Have never seen this before and want to confirm its identity. Retracts when disturbed.

Benthic ctenophores:

That's a Benthic Ctenophore - a benthic comb jelly. You can see the tentilla (the mini tentacles shooting off the main one) that are a good giveaway; the tentacles will lead back to a little blobbish shaped pressed flat on the surface.

It's generally recommended to get rid of them:

Generally speaking, you'll want to remove benthic ctenophores to be safe (my understanding is that some are harmless pod-eaters, but others can eat small fish).

 

[oxo]

Benthic ctenophores:

fascinating, thank you!