Identification Help!

[bsimps02]

Can someone please identify the brown and rust colored what looks like some type of macro algae (see attached pictures) that has slowly started to cover my rock? Secondly, if someone can identify it, is it going to be harmful if left unchecked? Third, unless it is extremely beneficial, I would prefer to have it removed, so is there a safe and easy way to do that without totally disrupting my rock structure? Any help is appreciated.

 

[Samala]

Possibly a Lobophora species. Hard to tell.

>Sarah

 

[bsimps02]

Thanks, if it is from that species, how harmful is it to a reef aquarium and if I wanted to remove it, what is the best way?

 

[Cristi]

It looks a lot like lobophora from the pictures you posted. Do the pieces that are hanging down feel rubbery if you try to move them? Lobophora is an encrusting plate algae. It probably will not harm anything, but it is difficult to get rid of. If you do a search on the reefcentral site, you will come across some threads discussing lobophora. Some people have had success with tangs eating it and some with sea urchins. Limiting nutrients may help and you can try scraping it off. I have some in my tank and am not too happy about it either.

 

[bsimps02]

I think we have it id'd. It definately feels rubbery to the touch and it is cascading down my rock in plate form. Thanks for your help.

 

[techigirl78]

I had that in my tank. I got a yellow tang to get rid of it, but the tang mainly just pecked at it occassionally and didn't make much of a dent. Finally, I got a orange spotted blenny and it seems to love it: http://www.liveaquaria.com/product/prod_display.cfm?pcatid=89&N=0 It is nearly gone . I don't know if he's just a freak, but thought I'd pass it along. Usually, I've read that naso tangs are apt to eat it as well, but my tank is too small for a naso long term.

Just be carefull when/if you break it off. Little pieces that float away seem to cause it to spread.

 

[bsimps02]

Thanks. I have also read through various threads that a blue tuxedo urchin or a Naso will eat it as well. I purchased the urchin about 3 days ago, so I'm anxious to see if it starts chowing. So far, it has been hanging out on my glass, getting acclimated, but today it seems to moving on to the LR. Keeping my fingers crossed.