Hitchhiker ID

[ChelseaRanee]

I got some more live rock a few weeks ago and these were on one end of it. For the first week or so they were closed up (the donut looking picture) but since then they open and close at different times of the day. Does anyone know what they are? Should I leave them there or remove them?

Please ingore the diatoms on the sand :)

Open
http://i1045.photobucket.com/albums/b455/ChelseaRanee/20140412_180706.jpg (http://s1045.photobucket.com/user/ChelseaRanee/media/20140412_180706.jpg.html)

Closed
http://i1045.photobucket.com/albums/b455/ChelseaRanee/20140412_220148.jpg (http://s1045.photobucket.com/user/ChelseaRanee/media/20140412_220148.jpg.html)

[dmh41532]

some type of palys. Once they are adapted, they will spread. Some people don't like them because they can take over fast. If you like them, keep them. If you don't you can sell, trade, throw them out. Just be mindful they are somewhat toxic.

[Tamarae]

Oh I have some that look very similar. Some sort of palys. I've let mine alone. 2 of this darker color, and a couple that are a vibrant red and green. I figure if they get out of hand I can frag them off later. Wear gloves if you remove them.

[snorvich]

some type of palys. Once they are adapted, they will spread. Some people don't like them because they can take over fast. If you like them, keep them. If you don't you can sell, trade, throw them out. Just be mindful they are somewhat toxic.

Palys are especially toxic if in a heat related environment. Be very sensitive to the potential danger of palytoxin fumes.

[ChelseaRanee]

How likely are they to release the toxin under normal circumstances? Is it only when touching or trying to remove them that I need to be worried?

[cloak]

How likely are they to release the toxin under normal circumstances? Is it only when touching or trying to remove them that I need to be worried?

Pretty much... I think the statement above yours was in reference to somebody saying throw them out. (garbage can)