ID looks like this may get out of control

[PSLSNOOKMAN]

This patch of algea started growing and looks like it could take over. I need a id and posible way to control it it with out killing all of my other algea. It seems to spread fairly rapidly.

 

[PSLSNOOKMAN]

Here is a better picture

 

[bluenassarius]

that will spread fast and attach to almost any object. i have some in my tank. its a nice looking algae but it can become a nuisance if not controlled. for some reason in my tank it breaks pieces of itself off and tries to spread itself that way.

 

[PSLSNOOKMAN]

that will spread fast and attach to almost any object. i have some in my tank. its a nice looking algae but it can become a nuisance if not controlled. for some reason in my tank it breaks pieces of itself off and tries to spread itself that way.

Any ideas on how to keep it under control? I have been pulling some of it at water change time but it does grow fast.

 

[Kelmen]

Looks like seaweed. Do herbivor consume them?

 

[kevin_mic]

A foxface will eat it, but it will probably eat it until it is completely gone.

 

[sanderson]

That algae I believe is Dictyota and it is a menace. I am having a minor outbreak and am trying to harvest it by hand. Unfortunately it spreads quickly and loves plastic (overflows, power heads, etc.)

I have had some luck with Emerald crabs but I may resort to getting a Naso Tang to take care of it. I have read the Dictyota is a stable of their diet, the only problem is its size. I don't believe that my 150 will provide a suitable home for very long.

 

[kmk2307]

I second the ID of Dictyota. I have heard some people had luck with Diadema urchins eating it. Do you test your nitrates and phosphates?

Kevin

 

[Daemonfly]

Would this be safe to just keep in a fuge? (i.e. throw it in with the chaeto). Just pulled a bunch of this out of a 2.5g, came on a ricordea frag.

 

[piercho]

3rd affirmative for Y-branch algae, Dictyota. My diadema never bothered Sargassum, so I'm thinking that Dictyota wont be a favorite, either. However, Sprung recommends Diadema urchins and Mithrax crabs for Dictyota, so maybe...

My vote is for hand removal. It may slow down over time, IMO.

 

[bluenassarius]

last resort would be... get a mini-torch and burn it off.