Retracted Torch: Possible Parasite?

[Tanggy]

Hi. I've had this torch for at least 6 months. It's been healthy since I got it. I noticed part of it retracted a few days ago. Upon closer examination, I noticed this feather/finger-like thing near one of its mouth. Is this what's irritating the torch? What should my next step be? Thanks.

 

[Lowell Lemon]

Looks like a barnacle or a type of crab. Should not be a problem long term as they exist in nature together.

 

[Tanggy]

Looks like a barnacle or a type of crab. Should not be a problem long term as they exist in nature together.

Thanks. If the torch remain retracted for some time. Should I be concern? Would I need to dip the torch in Coral Rx? Thanks...

 

[Lowell Lemon]

Thanks. If the torch remain retracted for some time. Should I be concern? Would I need to dip the torch in Coral Rx? Thanks...

I am not one to react to quickly to a coral closing up for a day or so. Some times corals close to ingest food or shed mucus like coatings. Unless you see flat worms or similar I would not bother the coral with a dip.

 

[vetteguy53081]

That is a hydroid within torch which can and will sting it. Remove the rock/frag and see if you can locate it and pull from base with tweezers. Torch will be fine out of water for several minutes while you do this OR you can place in shallow dish with tank water making it easier to spot the tube with the hydroid

 

[Tanggy]

Thanks. Will try to remove it.