The truth on alge

[stickynicky10]

I really really like the grape capurla alge, i think thats how u spell it. i was looking everywhere and i finaly found some. my buddy asked the store clerk what kind of lighting it takes to grow this alge. she replied, '' youll never be able to keep it it will jusst die no matter what ''. i was upset because i really like the stuff.so is it true or what??????? i wanna know , who ut their has it? who keeps this stuuf and what lighting do u recommend if u do? i have 230 watts of power compact lights. please respond i need some help form an experience reefer. what about the merrmaids cup also? any info? what do u think reefland?? help a newbie out. much thanks, nick

[Reefland]

Nick,

I beleive just the opposite. The various sp. of macro algaes available to us will only die quickly if not provide the proper nutrients to survive or mishandled. The death occurs when the algae is not exported and there are not enough nutrients in the system to sustain the health.

There is no special lighting needed for the growth, in fact standard output bulbs will be just fine. I would caution you about putting any macro algae in your display tank, it can and will grow out of hand and become a real nusiance to control.

Scott Z.

[stickynicky10]

what about memaids cup alge, its an atracctive species,will it also over run the tank,so what do u mean by nutriants tho? what is it main needs to suvive?

[Reefland]

I am not familiar with the common name of Mermaid Cup so I can't help you there.

Macro algas need nutrients to live, nutrients that we measure in the form of nitrates. If your nutrient export program is already keeping your water very clean (very little to no nitrates) then you may have a problem keeping the algae alive.

Scott Z.