Bubble Algae Question

Shabalaba · Dec 14, 2019

Hi, I have neglected the sump on one of my reef tanks for awhile and just noticed that bubble algae is growing in my 15 gallon refugium. The algae is contained to one corner of the refugium where it is growing on a pile of rock rubble. My question is, would it be unwise to place the rubble pieces with algae in the display for several tangs and blennies to eat or should I simply remove the rubble entirely? I have no idea if they would even view it as food, as they've never been exposed to it before. I also don't know how bubble algae spreads. Would them eating it result in a possible outbreak in the display? TIA

The Aquatic Arsenal · Dec 14, 2019

From what I understand about bubble algea is there are no live spores inside of it. With that being said, I don't know how it grows and spreads lol. I would honestly leave it where it is. It is better off growing in your refugium then in your display tank.

CheckeredPants · Dec 14, 2019

Take the pieces with the bubble algae out. Manually remove it and scrub the spot where it was with an old toothbrush. Then shake the rubble of in fresh or old tank water before putting it back.

Zos4me · Dec 14, 2019

get a couple of emerald crabs and throw them in there. They will eat it up . Do not add to display. if they pop they spread

moz71 · Dec 14, 2019

Agree with Checker pants. You are lucky you can remove and clean. When get on permanent rocks then go to emeralds

Uncle99 · Dec 14, 2019

Always remove what’s easy........

Vibrant!

vetteguy53081 · Dec 14, 2019

My berst luck too has been vibrant.
Emeralds in sump- Brilliant. . . . That would work and also put life into the sump !

Shabalaba · Dec 14, 2019

Thanks for the replies! I think ill scrub/wash the rubble, was just wondering if it could be free tang food

I'm always cautious of putting any living thing in my sump as I have a sump monster in this tank. A crab who was the size of my small fingernail years ago is now the size of my fist