Is this the start of coralline algae?

guitaris70 · Sep 22, 2016

I was wondering if this is the start of coralline algae? The purple obviously I'm dealing with a little elevated nitrate problem so there's green algae also in the picture, thanks!

salttanklife · Sep 22, 2016

Definitely

cromag27 · Sep 22, 2016

Yes, congrats!

guitaris70 · Sep 22, 2016

Thanks! And how do you guys know what gives it away? The way it encrusts the rock or something?

cromag27 · Sep 22, 2016

Correct. as it grows it will spread and get thicker.

guitaris70 said:
Thanks! And how do you guys know what gives it away? The way it encrusts the rock or something?

Shep · Sep 22, 2016

Wooo! I remember when i first started getting it, always a great milestone for a tank! Congrats!!!

guitaris70 · Sep 22, 2016

Thank you and I see it popping up all over the tank now!

kashman100 · Sep 22, 2016

You can also test it by blowing or rubbing it off. If it comes off easily it's not coraline. If you have to scrape to get it off it is.

guitaris70 · Sep 22, 2016

I just used a syringe and Injected water at it and it didn't come off

WhiskeyCoffee · Sep 28, 2016

guitaris70 said:
I just used a syringe and Injected water at it and it didn't come off

Then it's definitely coraline!

dieselkeeper · Sep 28, 2016

I'm a heavy SPS keeper, and I don't like coraline. Due to the fact it sucks up the calcium and alkalinity. Plus pink and purple corals tend to blend in with coraline covered rock. Just my pet peeve.