Macro Algae Eaters

[Shiandy]

Any ideas on what would eat this type of macro algae ? Trying to find somthing that would help me keep it in check, as manual removal is becoming hard work.

 

[entropygain]

foxface

foxface

Cleaned up a bad problem with grape calerpa in my tank in about two weeks. Now he loves a wad of nori every few days.

I'm a little worried about him outgrowing my tank soon, but I got a very small one, and planning on upgrading the tank.

good luck

 

[Shiandy]

Do you think my system could handle the bio load of a Foxface ? I currently have 5x Firefins, 2x Common Clowns, 1x Fire Angel.

Also are there any other potential risks adding a Foxface to an established Reef ? and would it be compatable with my current inhabitants.

 

[entropygain]

good question

good question

That does sound like a pretty loaded system. Might be the reason for the algae problem in the first place? Clearly you've got a lot of nutrients getting into the system.

I doubt crabs can handle that kind of macro problem however.

You may just have to pull the rockwork, clean as best you can and work on the nutrient load + improved cleanup crew to help keep it from coming back. And solve the nutrient problem. A refugium might also help if you have room.

Maybe others have suggestions.

 

[davocean]

My friend added a foxface and it mowed through his HA and macro
Only problem is when it was done with that it started to nip at his leathers.
Have you thought about a tang, maybe a yellow or kole for that size tank.

 

[Shiandy]

To be honest, I'm very tempted to get a Foxface or Tang, which would be best for the Macro Clearup ? I need to be 100% sure its gonna do the job.

I'll see if I can hire one from my LFS

 

[boomsticks]

Try a Lawnmower Blenny or Starry Blenny. Mine has killed off the entire growth of hair and "Saw-Blade" calupera

 

[Shiandy]

Does anyone have any further input on this ?, before I go out and put somthing in tank, that I'm gonna regret ?

 

[Charlie Davidson]

only way to be %100 sure.... New live rock

 

[entropygain]

I don't think new live rock will help. The algae will just re-grow. Always it's the nutrient source which is the underlying problem.
I personally haven't had good luck with lawnmower blennies on larger types of macro-algaes, but others may have.