I need fast tip

[Clearblue303]

Someone just came home from the tropics and brought me a (coral or sponge).Looks like a finger coral(never had one)is brownish flexible like rubber and has a rough surface like sandpaper.
This thing was in and out of water(found washed ashore).Now slightly colours the water in redish and it smells strongly.I have it in a bowl.
My question is:
should I put it in the tank and observe what will happen,or what else can I do?
Thanks.FM.

 

[danmhippo]

Better not. Sponges out of water have air trapped in their cells, almost impossible to get it out. It will die. Sorry dude.

 

[cgbexec]

Clearblue303,

Sounds like a sponge. I find them washed ashore all the time here in Florida. If they have been exposed to air, It probably won't survive. The rough skin like sand paper makes me think it is a sponge. If it was some type of soft coral, would be slick to the touch. If it smells, it could pollute your tank, unless your tank is very large.

Chris

 

[bowfront]

Could be a gorgonian if its brownish. These things are quite common in FL and often wash up on the beach. They are relatively hardy and unlike sponges can take some air time. That said I would toss it if it smells. Certainly I wouldn't put it in your reef tank. Hold it for a while is a small tank or bucket if you want to watch it but chances are it won't survive.

 

[Clearblue303]

Thanks guys!
This just smells so much that I think is a NO GO.
Still,do you know of some site to at least check out the identity?

Please guys check back tomorrow,I have more interesting questions.
Thanks for the fast response.
FM.

 

[Clearblue303]

Also I have a frag of a stony coral,that looks fine.Should I superglue it to a rock?

Snails collected on the surface rocks(on dry),are good to keep them in tank?(dome shaped with black and white spots).

There was a small white crab(sand crab?) running on the carpet when I took the dry rocks out.I"ve put it in the tank.Good,or bad?
Thanks.FM.