Tumours on corals

[mini mee]

Hello Everyone
What do they look like because I think I have some on my Leather umbrella The coral has grown about a 1/2' since he was first put in and seems fine right now but if anyone knows more about this subject that would be great.
There appears to be 3-4 white nodes on the stock ranging in size from
1/8"-1/4" around in size, do I need a UV?

thanks in advance
Alex

[Alice]

First off, determine if these are truly growths and not nudibranchs. Just yesterday I pulled two of the little nasties off of some colt corals and you could barely see them. They don't move much during the day...just sit there laying their nasty eggs all day so then you have more of the nasty, coral-munching critters...but I digress

Secondly, are you sure the coral isn't just growing? Do the tumors look exactly like the coral's body or do they look different?

~Alice

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Reefkeeping is my life; I can't afford a hobby too!

[mini mee]

Hi Alice
The node of tissue is stationary not the same color as pinkish tone of the rest of the stock more cream in color.
I have pulled a few of the nasties before to but these nodes appear under the tissue.
I would have to cut the tissue to remove it so I am thinking growth but of a tumour variety.
As you move up closer to the top of the umbrella you see smaller and smaller nodes.

I have keept my eye on them for 3 months and these are definitely planted of that I am sure.
The bigger node about a 1/4" is mid way up the stock.
I don't see any polyps on any of the nodes.

Hope that helps
Alex

[mini mee]

Hello everyone
Looking at this description of these nodes should I be concerned or is this normal to have these kind of nodes does the description sound like tumours?
and if they are is there really anything I can do about it?

Anyone Thanks

Alex

[horge]

Hi mini

Whether its a cyst or simply deformed growth, I'd leave it be for now. A small zone of lighter coloration usually indicates a healed scar, although...

There are lots of non-lethal critters that create 'galls' with a small aperture --in which to live, though most of them are associated with stony corals.

Just to be sure: the smaller nodes you mentioned --they are NOT where the polyps come out?

If the leather still extends polyps --and is growing-- I wouldn't worry about it.

Reports of 'tumorous' growths on Sarcophyton usually involve an eruption with white tissue poking out, and can indicate stress due to adverse water chemistry.

I wish I could be more specific, but a CLEAR photo of the "tumor" would help others on the board ID it.

horge



[This message has been edited by horge (edited 01-10-2001).]

[mini mee]

Hi Horge
Thanks for the reply no the nodes are only on the trunk and under side of the umbrella
there are no nodes were the polyps come out.
I don't see any sign of tissue poking out but I will keep you posted and try to post a pic.

Thanks again
alex