Not a bug/insect (Calcium Scale or Water Mold)
Scientific Name: N/A (Likely Calcium Carbonate or Saprolegnia/White Water Mold)
Order & Family: Inorganic mineral deposit or Oomycota (Water Mold)
Size: Varies; can be microscopic individually or form large, flaky sheets several inches wide.
Natural Habitat
Found in swimming pools, hot tubs, and spas, primarily on walls, floors, and plumbing fixtures.
Diet & Feeding
If mold: Consumes dead organic matter, skin cells, and bacteria. If scale: Accumulation of calcium minerals precipitated from water.
Behavior Patterns
If scale: Precipitates onto surfaces when pH or alkalinity is high. If mold: Grows in colonies, often resembling tissue paper or mucous, floating in water or clinging to surfaces.
Risks & Benefits
Risks: Can clog pool filters, damage heater elements, make surfaces rough/abrasive (scale), or create unsanitary swimming conditions (mold). Benefits: None in a pool environment.
Identified on: 3/11/2026