Any thoughts for what this might be?

[TippyToeX]

Hello all,

I am looking for an idea of what this macro algae might be.

Very slow grower. From a tiny sprout the below pictures it took more then 4 months. The lengths feel very pliant but the pointed tips growing out from it are almost sharp. Much more firm/sturdy then the rest.

Forgive the poor quality pictures. If needed I can take better.

TIA

 

[kmk2307]

Hi Amy,

Try looking up Hypnea.

HTH,
Kevin

 

[TippyToeX]

BINGO :thumbsup:

Thanks Kevin!

 

[TippyToeX]

In case anyone one might have this algae I found some interesting information.

Hypnea musciformis is common on calm intertidal and shallow subtidal reef flats, tidepools and on rocky intertidal benches. Most often found low intertidal to shallow subtidal reef flats, attached to sandy flat rocks, or frequently epiphytic on Sargassum and other algae. In bloom stage, may be found free-floating.

Quote form .hawaii.edu

The live rock that this algae is growing from had an abundant amount of Sargassum on it. So it makes sense why it is now in my tank.

FWIW, this algae has not been invasive and again a very slow grower. Ugly yes, but I like it's history and how it "hitchhiked" along with my Sargassum.