I've got a red tree sponge that looks like it's dying. Three of the tips appear to have lost the orange covering over the last 1/4" or so, leaving a translucent lacy-looking structure underneath.

I did have a mishap when I put the sponge in the tank several months ago and several tips (not sure if the same ones) got a momentary exposure to air, so I'm thinking this could be either the result of that or something else. Do I need to consider amputating these ends to save the healthy tissue, or is that even advisable? Any thoughts are welcome.

Thanks,

Chris