Macroalgae kinds, sizes, lighting?

[thejamesvolta]

After reading through what seems to be every post on Reef Central ...I have heard a lot of mention of the use of macroalgae in a fuge. I was curious if someone could please explain what are the kinds of macroalgaes a noob like myself should look into, and what the appropriate lighting conditions are to grow this macroalgae.

I would be putting this fuge in my main 20gal sump. I have plans to convert my 3gal acrylic aquarium I have in the closet , to a make-shift fuge . I was going to drill some small holes randomly throughout the 3gal and then place it in the sump for a ghetto fabulous fuge. Apparently I should put macroalgae in this fuge to help keep my nitrates down. Any input on this idea?

***Just wanted to add a quick note on how awesome these forums are! I have been a member on many various forums, and this forum is definitely in the top 3! Everyone stays on topic (for the most part), and is eager and willing to help out a noob like myself. Thank you everyone! I am glad I am leaving the freshwater scene, and moving over the saltwater scene! I couldn't do it without RC's help!!!!!!!!!

 

[Grins]

"ghetto fabulous fuge" Love that! Look into cheato if one of the more experienced reefers doesn't reply right away.

 

[thejamesvolta]

Thanks for the quick reply! I noticed Cheato seems to be very popular. Any tips on lighting? I though I saw in another post that someone was simply using a PC 24w bulb for their fuge. Any thoughts on this?

 

[Grins]

I am in the midst of setting mine up but most recommendations I see show that a small inexpensive fixture will work. Run the light to come on when your display lights go off to help balance pH

 

[Pea-brain]

In my ten gallon I have some chaeto over the input to my powerhead (to keep water running over/through it) and it grows slowly, but surely, under my 18 watt 50/50 bulb. And it is mostly in the shade. but I haven't had algae problems yet, and I believe I owe it at least partial credit for my small amount of success. 5 months and running! w00t!...okay I'm done

Dan

 

[jer77]

Chaeto is the overwhelming favorite in these forums for nutrient uptake. Many people sell it in the selling/trading forum, check it out.

 

[Pea-brain]

Oh, and if you want a nice plant that will go good in a main display look up shaving brush plants. I think they look great, but they need slightly stronger than usual lights. But they are probably good at sucking up nutrients too!

Dan

 

[thejamesvolta]

When do you 'introduce' cheato into the system? I am starting with a new tank so would I introduce it as the same time as LR and LS?

Or should I wait for the tank to cycle first, and then introduce it?

I know, so many q's :bum:

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=10255654#post10255654 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by jer77
....Many people sell it in the selling/trading forum, check it out.

thanks for the tip!