Macro algae getting spots and holes

[tonybierman]

Hi,

I just added some macro algae to my otherwise healthy and thriving reef tank. After about a week, the macro algae is developing spots (light spots that appear to be from lack of chlorophyll) and holes.

I'm afraid I'm going to lose it! Any thoughts? All the normal water parameters I test for seem to be fine.

 

[Samala]

What type of macroalgae is this?

>Sarah

 

[tonybierman]

Macoralgae health problems and identification help please

Macoralgae health problems and identification help please

Hi,

I've posted some photos in the hopes that perhaps you could help me to identify the species of macroalgea I've got and also the apparent health problems they're having.

You can view the macroalgae photos in my Aquarium November 22 photo album here.

The red algae is getting white spots, and the green fleshy algae is getting light spots some with holes in the middle.

All other marine species in the tank are happy and healthy. Basic water parameters look fine.

As a preemptive move, I've moved the algae up closer to the surface of my aquarium so it gets the most light possible. I'm running 8,800 (x2) compact flourescents.

Thanks so much!

 

[graveyardworm]

 

[Samala]

The green I see is likely to be Ulva or a closely related species/genus. These often get holes in them and light areas due to feeding action of amphipods, copepods and snails. It should come back given good nutrients in the tank (bioload to support it) and good lighting. Moving it higher up in the tank may help.

The white areas on the red algae look like they may indicate nutrient deficiency. I wonder if the algae just isnt getting enough to eat from the water column. You could try upping the amount of food you give to the other tank inhabitants.. but do so slowly. Ammonia spikes (say from uneaten food, or a big spike in waste production from fishes) can cause cyano outbreaks, among other things.

>Sarah

 

[billsreef]

The translucent areas on the green (looks like Ulva) are typical for lack of nutrients and/or lack of ligth. I find Ulva likes very intense light, it is typically found in only the first couple of feet of the water where it gets very direct sunlight, often exposed to air for at low tide also. The reds typically do well with less light, so that is likely a nutrient issue. Along with upping the nutrient levels, it would be a good idea to dose some iron and look into getting higher intenstity lighting for the Ulva.