orange tree sponge deterioration

[jferguson]

I have an aquarium that all my plant and animal life seems to be doing well-a lot of growth and snails are laying eggs, etc. However, I recently placed two orange tree sponges in my aquarium and they are gradually deteriorating from the outside leaving white skeletal remains. My water temp is 79-81 deg. with a ph of 8.1, no ammonia, nitrates, or nitrites.

 

[halide]

It may be to late but try feeding phytoplankton I buy mine at my LFS but you can order it on the net I use DT'S marine phytoplankton.

 

[clayton]

Afraid it could be a lot of things. If the reaction has been quick and all water conditions are good (pH might be a bit low - shopuld be 8.3), then check the lighting - it may be far too bright for it.