Asterina eating a Zoa?

Discussion in 'Soft Corals' started by Clonefarmer, Jan 24, 2011.

to remove this notice and enjoy 3reef content with less ads. 3reef membership is free.

  1. Clonefarmer

    Clonefarmer Millepora

    Joined:
    Dec 9, 2010
    Messages:
    924
    Location:
    Springfield, MA
    I just walked in and saw an Asterina star on a Zoa polyp. Do they eat Zoa? Should it be removed?
     
  2. Click Here!

  3. evolved

    evolved Wrasse Freak

    Joined:
    Feb 26, 2010
    Messages:
    4,257
    Location:
    Phoenix, AZ
    Depends on who you believe. It's definitely not impossible. It's also possible it was eating detritus on the colony.
     
  4. Clonefarmer

    Clonefarmer Millepora

    Joined:
    Dec 9, 2010
    Messages:
    924
    Location:
    Springfield, MA
    Hopefully it was only cleaning up a bit :). The way it was sitting on the polyp looked ominous.
    [​IMG]
     
  5. scadsobees

    scadsobees Fire Shrimp

    Joined:
    Jan 5, 2011
    Messages:
    325
    They will start eating softies. I haven't had a problem, but I peeled one off my GSP and there was definately a star shaped hole in it.
     
  6. 2in10

    2in10 Super Moderator

    Joined:
    Aug 6, 2009
    Messages:
    19,258
    Location:
    Sparks, NV
    I would remove that one to be safe.
     
  7. Clonefarmer

    Clonefarmer Millepora

    Joined:
    Dec 9, 2010
    Messages:
    924
    Location:
    Springfield, MA
    The star moved shortly after the pic. All the polyps opened up and there appears to be no damage :). Looks like the star gets a pass for now. I'll keep a close eye on them.
     
  8. Click Here!

  9. Zoanthids21

    Zoanthids21 McKoscker’s Flasher Wrasse

    Joined:
    Aug 15, 2010
    Messages:
    2,249
    Location:
    Charlotte, NC
    remove it..I have had a few that ate zoas,palys,softies..