What’s on my sponge?

[ambuncher]

I bought a sea sponge a few months ago. It was doing great for weeks, then fell over between some rocks for a few days. When I pulled it out of rocks, it has some white and brown goo on it. It looks like algae of some sort. I can see the orange flesh beneath, but the goo seems to be spreading. I placed it near a power head to try and blow some of the gunk off. Anyone know what it is, or how to get rid of it? I know the sponge can’t hit the air or it will die. I don’t have too much algae at all in the rest of the tank, besides a little bubble algae (emeralds are working on it)

 

[nezw0001]

My guess is that the sponge isn't doing great and that is some sort of bacterial mat consuming the weak sponge tissue.

 

[ambuncher]

My guess is that the sponge isn't doing great and that is some sort of bacterial mat consuming the weak sponge tissue.

Hmm that would make sense. Any thoughts on anti-bacterial meds I can use? I’ve never delved into the whole medication route. Or with all the coral I have, is it better to just pull it out?

 

[nezw0001]

I don't think it is worth treating. Sponges have poor long term survival in the average reef tank.