Extremely Aggressive Caulerpa - Help?

[Samm1]

Exactly what the title says. I was recently hired to help care for a 180 gallon public reef system, and while the tank is quite nice, its absolutely infested with what looks like Caulerpa sertularioides (or something similar). When pulled, it returns with a vengeance within the week. The tank already contains a juvenile yellow tang, so I don't love the idea of adding any other sort of rabbitfish or tang that might cause issues with aggression. All suggestions are appreciated!

 

[sixpackgarage]

just keep removing it until it doesn't come back any more.

 

[joshbrookkate]

just keep removing it until it doesn't come back any more.

+1
That's what I did but I needed to remove 2 small rocks that were the worst. No regrets. It worked. Good luck.
Michelle

 

[Samm1]

Thanks!

 

[toothybugs]

Emerald crabs. Mine decimated a stand of C. Prolifera in under a week, it was own stupidity that left it there a week. Still trying to find a local source to bring it back.

 

[OoNickoC]

If the tap roots are in the rock its a done deal. Especially once its established. It depends on how long the plant has taken hold and what type of rock it is on. If the rock is even remotely porous it probably has to have the rock purged via heat or chemical treatment. Post some pics!

 

[Michael Hoaster]

There is the nuc-ular option; urchins.

 

[nawilson89]

There is the nuc-ular option; urchins.

+1 Urchins will devour any macro.

First hand experience.