RIP Feather Duster?

[Crowbar]

So, I've got a feather duster that I've had for a couple of months now. He always seemed pretty healthy. He's been in his tube with the end clamped off for the past 1-2 weeks, though - I haven't seen him emerge at all. I did find a couple of his feathers, at one point, but nowhere near enough to suggest he shed his entire crown... and no body, though I suppose that could have been eaten by my hermits.

At this point should I just assume he's died? And if so, do I need to pull the tube out? I'm not sure if it will decay and cause an issue or if it'll just sit there with no problem.

 

[Ron Reefman]

I don't know how big your tank is, but the body of a feather duster is rather small and shouldn't be an issue, even in a small tank. The tube is harmless and will dissolve over time (it may take months) so no worries IMHO.