Is this what they refer to as macro algae?

[quaffin1]

I Have this starting to grow in 3 spots on LR. Is it macro algae (kelp)?
Is it ok to grow, tank is 3 months old. Or should I get rid of it.
Thanks

 

[rbaldino]

Yes. Not sure of the species, though. It may be beneficial to your tank, so you can leave it if you want. Most macro algaes can grow out of control, which is why most people keep them in fuges. So if you want to keep it, get used to regular pruning.

 

[lion_crazz]

Yes, that is macroalgae. I would leave it if you do not have a refugium. You will eventually get something that will eat it and you will have a nice food source for that animal. In the time being, you have a nice way of controlling nitrates, phosphates, inorganics, etc.

 

[anonome]

Absolutely, keep it. I have halimeda in my tank and love the natural effect it gives. But, as stated you will need to trim it from time to time if no animals do it for you. It appears to be a type of caulerpa....very tasty. My halimeda, on the otherhand isn't tasty, so I have to hand prune it. It will help with nitrates, and inorganics for sure. Pods and amphipods will go there to spawn and live. Good luck with it.

 

[quaffin1]

thanks all,
I don't have a tang yet, tank is still very young, 3 months. So
my plan was to let tank mature before adding a tang, but I understand
that most tangs would eat this type algae.
I have been told to monitor it tho, cause if it gets out of hand it is much
harder to deal with.
I will plan to keep an eye on it and prune it if need be.