Ocean Macro Algae in Aquarium

[GABONE]

I just got back from Punta Cana, and I brought back a bunch of Macro Algae. I was wondering what you guys thought of using this stuff in my refugium. Look like Mostly caulerpa, and some stuff that looks like Mini Kelp. Thanks again for your input.

 

[jimbo045]

Macros are fine. They should bring down the Nirates, because that is what they use for food. JD

 

[TWallace]

I've read caulerpa is one of the less desirable macroalgaes due to it going sexual once a month and having a mass die off. However, I've also read you can prevent that by leaving the light on over your refugium 24 hours a day.

You can pick up some chaetomorpha and/or red graciliara on eBay pretty cheap. That's what I bought. I've read most tangs love the red graciliara.

 

[GABONE]

Well mostly I have that mini kelp stuff. Just wondering about it coming from the ocean. I went through it pretty well to reduce the chance of getting any unwanted hitchhikers. I didn't see any, and I have it in the refugium, and it looks to be doing extremely well.

 

[GABONE]

If I get a pic up on the web does anyone think thatthey can identify it for me? I'd like to know it's effectivness at eating up nitrates.

 

[Samala]

We can certainly try a stab at an ID if you post a pic. But no gaurantees, particularly if its a red algae.

If you're concerned about hitchhikers you can freshwater dip all macro's for a 30min bath, watch them in intervals. If they start to lose color pull them and place back in saltwater. You might consider doing a freshwater dip, then a QT for a few days in salt and then another freshwater dip before introducing to the tank for good.

I wonder if by 'mini kelp' you might mean Sargassum sp.?

>Sarah