Algae Identification

[Mikro]

Could someone identify these algae? And are they beneficial?

First: http://www.members.cox.net/scheint/131_3172ed.JPG

Second: http://www.members.cox.net/scheint/131_3163ed.JPG

Third: http://www.members.cox.net/scheint/131_3178ed.JPG

Fourth: http://www.members.cox.net/scheint/131_3175ed.JPG

Thanks....

 

[kmk2307]

1) It's some sort of dichotomously (Y) branching, filamentous, red... Possibly order Gelidalea or Rhodymenialea. Search around for pics on the web.

2) Caulerpa prolifera (leafy blades) and Caulerpa taxifolia (feathery blades; it may also be C. mexicana... what kind of lighting do you have? Is it "floppy" or pretty "crispy"?)

3) Sebdenia?

4) I can't tell from that picture. I believe it would have to be looked at under a scope to tell. It's almost certainly either a Caulerpalean or Siphonocladalean green algae.

Where did you get these from? All from the same place? None of these are harmful so I would let them go. 1 and 4 have the potential to become pests but I'm not sure of it. 2 is easily enough removed. 3 is way cool and I think even if it "took" over it would be a beautiful display. You could probably sell rocks covered with it for god money. I don't think it grows fast, though.

HTH,
Kevin

 

[bluenassarius]

i have some of that one in the 1st and 3rd pic