What's up with my RBTAs?

Akira38 · Jan 30, 2019

So I've had two RBTAs for just over a year now. They've been in the same spot since the day I put them in my tank. About 4 days ago I noticed that one of my nems had this white mass near it's mouth, while the other nem looked down right sickly. Nothings changed except today the nem that looked bad was actually open again, doing it's thing like usual, except it too has a massive white mass on its mouth. I've never seen this before, anyone know what's up? I'll post a pic from you and from about a month ago for reference, granted it's not the best angle.

Thank You For helping <3

kichimark · Jan 30, 2019

That is very unique. The only time I have seen anything like this was when they appeared to be regurgitating something but in one of your pictures it seems like there is a white growth just above the mouth. Not sure what it is but also interested if anyone knows.

PDR · Jan 30, 2019

Have you been feeding them anything?

Akira38 · Jan 30, 2019

Yes, they get some PE Mysis twice a week. These growths don't seem to effect their appetite, they're eating just fine

PDR · Jan 30, 2019

Have you tried touching the growth to see how well it is attached? The first 2 pictures look more like the mouth/stomach turned inside out while the third does look like some kind of growth.

@davocean any ideas?

Akira38 · Jan 30, 2019

I did lightly touch it, the nem didn't react, but when I tooth a tentacle he definitely reacts. So it's kinda like he doesn't feel the growth?

Akira38 · Jan 30, 2019

I will also say that the growths on both nems change in size daily. Today the nem in the first pic looks far larger, while the growth on the other nem is about half the size it was yesterday.

I'm guessing since nems inhale water to inflate, this would also affect the size of the growth? I'll try to get a look at it tonight after the lights have been off.

davocean · Jan 31, 2019

Akira38 said:
I will also say that the growths on both nems change in size daily. Today the nem in the first pic looks far larger, while the growth on the other nem is about half the size it was yesterday.

I'm guessing since nems inhale water to inflate, this would also affect the size of the growth? I'll try to get a look at it tonight after the lights have been off.

Yeah agree on size change, but I personally have not seen that before, no idea.
If it was on the outer part I'd say maybe budding for all I know that could be, maybe, but it does look more like a weird growth.

Akira38 · Jan 31, 2019

I find it extra weird since it happened to both nems quite literally overnight.

I'll post an update tomorrow. If anyone can think of anything I would greatly appreciate any info!