Need ID for Weird Gray Growth on Powerhead...

MelissaKathryn · Apr 28, 2013

There was originally just one that we noticed the other day, now there are three.

It is gray and looks like it is the consistency of play-doh, but I haven't touched it yet. It looks like it could be a fungus or sponge or jelly? If it is a sponge, it isn't very porous.

I consulted the Hitchhiker's Guide to the Reef Tank and couldn't find it.

Does anyone know what it is? Or what it does? Has anyone experienced this before? And what should I do? Is it beneficial and I should just leave it alone? Or should I get it off ASAP? And if I need to get it off, what is the best way to do it? Should I remove the powerhead first, etc.?

stunreefer · Apr 28, 2013

Is it actually growing on the pump? Kind of looks like it just got sucked up against the intake screen...

Regardless, you can pull the pump and clean it off. If it's tough to remove, try vinegar. If that doesn't work, I use muriatic acid (be careful and know safety precautions!)

3Twinklets · Apr 28, 2013

It is a good idea to keep the grid clean for good flow. It is really hard to tell exactly what it is but there are grayish sponges.

mike007 · Apr 28, 2013

Looks like detrius just clean it off everything is okay.

MelissaKathryn · Apr 28, 2013

Thanks stunreefer and yes, it is ACTUALLY growing on there! I forgot to mention that the Nitrates are zero, calcium is good, no phosphate, etc. and it gets full sun from halides and actinics.

So you think I should get rid of it, huh? In the back of my head, I was kind of hoping I had something realllyyyyy special growing.