carnivorous pods on Mandarin

[joker]

I have a parasite attached to my Mandarin. It looks like a white pod, attached to his body by his dorsal fin.
I have seen posts about them before, but I dont remember what they are called!!
Question:
1) will it kill mandarin??
2) should I try to get it off??
if so should I do a dip and what is the recomended salinity level??
3) why arent my skunks or peppermints getting it off??
I would post a pic, but the Mandarin is extremely camera shy and flees to the rockwork when I approach the tank with the damn digi camera.
Sorry, I am mad at this damn thing.
OH YEAH - I posted similar question on newbie forum.

 

[joker]

well thanks to SWF members for the quick replies on newbie board, It was identified as a Cirolanid isopod. Caught the Mandarin in a net and removed the little parasite to an empty bowl to die in MISERY.

Joker

 

[the claw]

Oh my gosh, don't say that. Someone will flame you for not euthanising it humanely, or for not putting it in its own tank. Just Kiddin'. That was probably the Rocky of the Pod kingdom trying to get even with the evil mandarin who eats all of their pod brethern. Good show!