red/orange alge?

ubermkv · Joined: 19 Aug 2009 Location: columbus, ohio

a few days ago I started noticing red/ orange colored growth (not sure if its alge) on my white reef rocks in my new tank now its almost covered the entire rock and is spreading. is this "alge" dangerous? a bad sign of something? is it edible for the fish? I have not noticed any fish messing with it.

Neogenesis · Joined: 03 Jan 2008 Location: Findlay, Ohio

Never seen or heard of it. Any pics?

Scott
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125G

31 Demasoni
3 Labidochromis Caeruleus
2 Copadichromis Borleyi Kadango
1 Eureka Red Peacock
1 Nagara Flametail Peacock
1 Iodotropheus Sprengerae
1 Metriaclima Greshakei
1 OB Peacock
1 Clown Pleco
1 Bristle Nose Pleco
1 Clown Loach

Cento · Joined: 30 Mar 2005 Location: Toronto

Red algae is a type of algae that is rarely found in freshwater. I believe out of thousands of types found in the ocean, only a few hundred exist in freshwater.

I don't believe its toxic to fish, based on the knowledge that it is actually used in some cultures cuisines (Nori). There is, of course, the "ugly" factor to algae, and there are numerous steps you can take to prevent the spread of algae (Limit lighting duration, sufficient type of lighting, use CO2 in planted tank systems, etc). The library here has tons of tips on tank maintenance and algae prevention.

I'd be interested to hear if you fish touch it though. Keep us posted. Good luck! Thumb