Toadstool coral having issues - don`t know if necrosis or predator (pics)

I've had this specimen for about a year and a half, started about 1" in diameter. Has been in the same location in this tank since March of this year.


Has good flow, tank params are fine and I have multiple sps, lps and zoas without issues. Gently scrubbed affected area yesterday.


Have read that it may be a good idea to trim the flesh 1/8" inch past the irritation.


Two things not captured in these pics:


1. Does still have good polyp extension


2. The underside of the coral is dark (looks like a stain) directly below the affected area and goes a little into the stalk.


Also - as you'll see in the pics there's a pale yellow spot that appears to be a hole in the specimen - related? Different issue? Cause for alarm?


-Eric

 

Additional pic capturing underside of affected area:

 

Don't know - cropped up very quickly. Seemed like 48 hours or less - either that or I missed it for days.


I can cut all of the affected area out and it will heal?


-Eric

 

Looks to be worse - may be too late.

 

The coral below is a War Coral and while aggressive, I don't believe it's close enough to bother it.


Although it is possible the toadstool allowed itself to bend over far enough to touch the War Coral and if so the damage would be at the same place.


-Eric

 

Thanks for the replies!


I fragged two pieces on the 8th - unfortunately both frags and the specimen perished yesterday,


-Eric

 

Update:


Shortly after my last post I cut the toadstool off near the rock and threw it away - it was obviously dying.


About a month later the stump regenerated into 4 stalks. Pics from today - very hardy coral: