Coralline algae

LPS · Nov 21, 2014

Guys, just a quick question. My tanks rock is all different colors and I'd really like to get coralline algae growth on my rock quickly. Is there a way to accelerate growth but still manage it?

Thanks in advance,
Matt

kireek · Nov 22, 2014

I try to maintain adequate calcium and magnesium levels for coraline growth.I have also had success with products marketed for the purpose.Other than using less additives,I am not sure how to control it.It grows where it grows.Too much growth on your equipment is detrimental. I like to test my water frequently then dose supplements accordingly.

Cory · Nov 22, 2014

If you have low phosphate and adequate alkalimity and calcium levels then corraline will grow. Corraline algae is growth stunted when po4 reaches more than .03ppm.

Randy Holmes-Farley · Nov 22, 2014

I agree. Phosphate on the low side (but not ULNS) high magnesium (coralline uses a lot) and normal to high calcium and alkalinity should encourage coralline.

Keeping organics in check with skimming and/or GAC may help.

Finally, many species of coralline don't like super bright light.

choff · Nov 22, 2014

I have plenty you can have

hart24601 · Nov 22, 2014

I agree totally with Randy. But who doesn't?!? I have found coralline doesn't like high light but it did grow more quickly for me when I raised alk from 7 to 10.

LPS · Nov 22, 2014

I heard one trick was to get some scrapped off from a friend, grind it up and then put it in the tank. Then after everything normally get covered faster. But dunno if that was a good idea because I don't want every single thing covered lol

moulton712 · Nov 22, 2014

I agree with non high light. I get more growth in my sump with a 13w cfl then in my display. I also have high flow through my sump. 1300 gph in a 40b for a 125 display.

fishroomlady · Nov 22, 2014

adding some scapes of coralline can be helpful if all other parameters are in check. you can also try adding a piece of live rock that has quite a lot of coralline and that can help seed for additional growth as well. It does take some time to get started so like everything in this hobby, be patient

Zero Nitrates · Nov 22, 2014

adding some scapes of coralline can be helpful if all other parameters are in check. you can also try adding a piece of live rock that has quite a lot of coralline and that can help seed for additional growth as well. It does take some time to get started so like everything in this hobby, be patient

+1
I put a piece of rock from a friends tank in to get started

LPS · Nov 22, 2014

Tanks been running over a year and the rock has some, but I just added the dead rock in so it stands out like a sore thumb. Worked a insane amount of hours over the summer so the tank got a little neglected also.