algae identification needed needed

[underseaworld]

I was given this algae. Is this good for my reef? What type of algae is it?

[zhenya]

Hi there,

I'm not 100% sure but first one looks like C.prolifera
and second one looks awefully similar to the C.taxifolia, the dreaded invader that plagued California waters.

Again, I'm no expert and could be wrong on the identification. The second part of your question.., I wouldn't put any of it in my display tank but refugium is an OK place to use Caulerpa, and many people are using various species for nutrient export via biomass.

PS> Here's something to read on the C.taxifolia and why it is so invasive and dangerous.
Caulerpa taxifolia - Invasive Aquatic Plants of the United States

[underseaworld]

i have this algae in my sump. should i remove them?

[zhenya]

i have this algae in my sump. should i remove them?

I don't think you need to remove it if you can make sure that it won't make it into your display. On the other hand, some people like having forest of caulerpa growing in their displays. I'm just not one of this people. ;)

I would recommend reading more about Caulerpa before yanking it out, like I said many people using it in their refugiums for nutrient export. There are some risks of Caulerpa sporulating(going sexual) and it is the reason why I always stay away from Caulerpa.

[Ninong]

I agree with zhenya's identification on both species. You can find an identification guide to Caulerpa here.

[johnmaloney]

So do I, caulerpa can look great if you mold it right. The big thing is to keep an eye out if it goes sexual. (It will turn white when this happens). When macro algae goes sexual it respires more than usual, giving off what can amount to large amounts of co2, (instead of oxygen), which can adversly effect ph. Keep the lights on all the time and this wont happen, or have equal amounts in your display and sump and get them on the opposite photocycle as this usually happens when the light is off. Have fun with caulerpa, I got some in my newest tank.