Setting up my first tank, please help identify these hitch hikers

[ojonas81]

Hi everyone!

I am in the beginning stages of setting up my very first saltwater tank. Got live rock a few days ago and today I discovered a few growing things on one of the rocks. Can anyone please help me identify what it is and tell me if I should keep them or remove the growth from the tank.

Thanks!

[skeeter_usaf]

It looks like a featherduster and some type of sponge which are all harmless. I am sure you will find alot more in the upcoming days ahead. The only hitchhikers you want to keep an eye out for are anemones and bristleworms. Neither are bad but can get out of control if not monitored. No worries.

[Smerdikov]

dont forget mantis shrimp!!

[PoeticInjustice]

Originally Posted by skeeter_usaf

It looks like a featherduster and some type of sponge which are all harmless. I am sure you will find alot more in the upcoming days ahead. The only hitchhikers you want to keep an eye out for are anemones and bristleworms. Neither are bad but can get out of control if not monitored. No worries.

Bristleworms should be a'ight.

[thegrun]

#1 Feather Duster (good)
#2 Sponge (good)
#3 I can't tell from the picture

[ojonas81]

Thanks!

I will try to get a better picture of the 3rd growth tonight. Haven't figured out how to take crystal clear pictures yet.

I have also found a couple of small sea stars hiding in cracks. Looks like Brittle starts or Serpent starts to me. Probably Brittle stars. From what I can tell they are good nocturnal cleaners and should be kept.

[Ohiomom]

If your camera has a little flower icon on its settings or on the back panel it is for super close ups and it will help the camera focus if you put it in this mode.ie. macro mode..hth.