What is this?

Discussion in 'ID This!' started by Camkha1234, Jan 24, 2013.

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  1. Camkha1234

    Camkha1234 Great Blue Whale

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    This is slowly popping up everywhere. Does anyone know what it is?

    [​IMG]

    It's not like GHA. It's all growing from one stalk that seems to anchor itself into the rock. It then branches off. The branches have flat circular tips.
     
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  3. 2in10

    2in10 Super Moderator

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  4. Camkha1234

    Camkha1234 Great Blue Whale

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    Thanks. What should I do to get rid of it?
     
  5. 2in10

    2in10 Super Moderator

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    Carefully pull it loose. You may end up doing this often and constantly since they have root structures that break off easily and regenerate. The usual maintenance info on algae control applies and will help slow it down. This species is not as bad about going "sexual" but can still overgrow corals and kill them off.
     
  6. Camkha1234

    Camkha1234 Great Blue Whale

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    Also, what type of Caulerpa is it?
     
  7. 2in10

    2in10 Super Moderator

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    I am not sure. Check the nuisance algae link on Reef Cleaners website to get the exact species.
     
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  9. Swisswiss

    Swisswiss Caribbean Reef Squid

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    Some use it as trate exporter in the sump. If you have one set up chuck in there. I've actually tried to keep macro algae in my DT but to no avail. I guessing there isn't enough phosphates or nitrates to feed them *shrugs*
     
  10. Camkha1234

    Camkha1234 Great Blue Whale

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    Great info. Thanks.

    I'll check it out ;)

    I don't have a fuge :-/
     
  11. Greg@LionfishLair

    Greg@LionfishLair 3reef Sponsor

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    The macro in question appears to be Caulerpa racemosa var. peltata (AKA suction cup Caulerpa). Being a variant of C. racemosa, it's one of the faster-growing species.

    Altho we run live macro in our setups, since you have a reef, I'd try to get rid of it before it encroaches on your corals. Manual removal will eventually work (be sure to freeze the stuff 24 hrs before you toss it to be sure it's dead).

    Many browsing fish will eat the stuff as well.

    HTH
     
  12. Camkha1234

    Camkha1234 Great Blue Whale

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    That's definitely what it is. Thanks!

    What fish will eat it?
     
    Last edited: Feb 3, 2013