Graciallia

[MperRluvR]

What experience does anyone have with keeping this macro algae in a refugium. I am told that it is free floating and like high flow. I have an emperor 400 and another powerhead for about 500 gph total flow in a 55 gallon refug.
what kind of light does it need?
white spectrum only or does it need blue too?
i've heard of people using cheap fluoresent or grow light bulbs for their refug. thanks

 

[MperRluvR]

anyone?

 

[mesocosm]

Greetings All !

MperRluvR,

"I am told that it is free floating and like high flow."

Gracilaria tikhiavae wants bright light and good flow, although alot of folks seem to be successful with it at moderate flows.


"I have an emperor 400 and another powerhead for about 500 gph total flow in a 55 gallon refug. "

10X turnover sounds fine, but you may need to screen off the intakes to prevent clogging.


"what kind of light does it need?
white spectrum only or does it need blue too?"

Most ... but not all ... macroalgae growth best under daylight spectra (... red as compared to most reef lighting ...). With Gracilaria tikhiavae you'll know you've got good lighting if the tips turn orange and/or bright pink (... thanks BillsReef ...).


"i've heard of people using cheap fluoresent or grow light bulbs for their refug. "

The lighting pictured is 4 X 96w PC, with 6700K and 7100K bulbs. It was adequate, but I would have used 5500K if I had to do it over.

HTH.