Feather Duster

[55semireef]

My feather duster seems to be gradually each day closing. When I first got it, its crown was all spread apart and looked nice. Now, the ends of each feather seems to be curling at the end. I don't take that as a good sign. Any reasons why its doing that?

[johnski]

could be that its not getting enough food and its about to shed its crown, do you target feed the feather duster

[55semireef]

I don't. Should I? Will it make that big of a difference. Also, what do you mean shed its crown? Kind of like a crab molting?

[zipper214]

Sort of like a crab molting, only it's bad. If they shed their crown it usually means they're not happy (i.e., not getting enough to eat). If it loses it's crown there still might be hope as it's possible it can grow another one. If it loses it a second time, it's probably a goner. Target feeding is the best way to make sure it's getting enough to eat, hence, the best way to ensure it's survival. :)

[johnski]

a very good description of whats happening from zipper214, what is your feeding regime for the tank at present, if you are not feeding enough zooplankton/phytoplankton to the tank then target feeding is a good way to ensure that the feather duster is getting enough food.

[55semireef]

wow. I better get on that.