Macro algae that just won't go away

[zzpw3x]

This algae made it into my tank several months ago, and it is starting to get out of control. I've looked at several resources and can't find what it is - I think it is some type of caulerpa, but after that I can't tell. Either way, I really need to know what will eat it. Manual removal is not an option. When I pull it off, little pieces float away only spreading the problem.

* A clear, crisp photograph

* A description of the texture of your algae (is it brittle? soft? fleshy? does it break easily?)
Soft, easily broken but it is not fragile.

* A good reference for the size of the algae (try for something in the photograph that shows the scale)
See pick and egg crate (5/8" egg crate)

* The location of your live rock or collection spot (Caribbean, South Pacific, Pacific, etc.)
unknown

* A description of the growth habit of your alga (growing on rock, on/in the sand, in the water column, etc.)
Attaches roots to rock.

Thanks,

Dale

 

[graveyardworm]

Looks like Caulerpa Brachypus

There arent awhole lot of good caulerpa predators, especially for a small tank. You could try an urchin, I have no experiance with these so hopefully someone else can suggest one. There are slugs which will eat caulerpa, but as of yet no source for them other than as hitchhikers, and individual species may be specialized to feed on a specific species of caulerpa. Sad to say in your case the best method for control may be manual removal and persistance.

 

[zzpw3x]

That looks like it. I know lettuce nudi's won't eat it, I have tried them. Also, my Astreas will pick at it and cut it down a little but not enough to outpace its growth.

ANy other thoughts are welcome.

Dale

 

[slowECUdiver]

the slug Graveyardworm is talking about is the Sacoglossa slug. a buddy of mine got lucky and one came up as an unknown hitch hiker and has eaten at his caulerpa. here's some info on this kind of slug: http://www.seaslugforum.net/factsheet.cfm?base=oxynviri

hope that helps a little bit. not sure where you might find these guys other than by asking your lfs to be on the look-out for ya.