Strange looking filter feeder

Found this guy attached to one of the PVC pipes on my overflow...already has a few babies with him. Very long and flowy tentacles...any ideas?

 

looks like some type of anemone, possibly aiptasia. I am no expert and don't know what they look like in a juvenile state.

 

Yep, aiptasia... pest anemone.

 

++++1

 

Thanks! Now, here's my next question: everything I've heard about aiptasia says to eradicate at first discovery.

This guy has been in my overflow for a while...and I've noticed that I actually have a bunch of similar filter feeders (whether they're all aiptasia I can't say...not are nearly as big as the guy in my pic). However nothing has made the leap from my overflow into my DT. Should I just leave them be, or is it only a matter of time?

 

They will more than likely spread sooner or later ..They are bad little SOB's ,need to eliminate them ASAP IMO...
I had great luck with peps eating them

 

Definitely need to kill them quickly!

 

yes - if you can get ride of it, do it.

If you're not careful, you can inadvertently spread these little bastards while trying to remove it. I would suggest you turn off the pumps before removing it. If you can remove the pipe before removing the pest, that might be the best way. If not - then just use a soft cloth and latterly wipe it off. Don't pull it, as it will break into lots of little parts and spread like crazy.

hope that helps.

 

they will spread. Get it out because once its in it will be very hard to stop. Thats why you have to act. Peppermint Shrimp help eat them too but thats a last resort