Saltwater Aquarium Algae

Saltwater aquarium, also referred to as marine aquarium, is specially maintained to keep marine plants and animals. Though the basic maintenance tips for freshwater and saltwater aquarium are more or less similar, the latter type requires extra aquarium equipment and strict monitoring of water quality. In addition, the marine plants and animals are more expensive and hard to preserve. In order to regulate a stable aquarium environment, large saltwater aquariums are usually preferred.

Many hobbyists prefer to maintain saltwater aquariums, as the marine plants and animals are fascinating and spectacular. Saltwater aquariums are classified based on the temperature condition of the tank (tropical and temperate) and the type of inhabitants. Depending upon the inhabitants or organisms in the saltwater aquarium, it can be fish only, fish with live rock and coral reef aquarium. Various saltwater algae are also added to enhance the aesthetic value and maintain the water quality. Let's take a look at the common saltwater algae used in the marine aquarium.

Types of Saltwater Aquarium Algae

While speaking about the popular algae for saltwater aquarium, most of them belong to the Cholophyta (green algae) and Rhodophyta (red algae) division. The marine green algae are easy growing, beneficial and rarely cause nuisance in the aquarium. Red algae require very clean water for growth. They should be pruned regularly. Following are some algae species that you can include in your saltwater aquarium.

Caulerpa Algae
Caulerpa is the most popular green algae used in the saltwater aquaria. In total, there are about 75 species of Caulerpa. The structure of this green algae consists of a stolon with rhizoid-like roots and blade-like fronds. The color of the fronds may vary from lime green to bluish brown. Caulerpa act as filters and remove excess ammonia, nitrates and phosphates from the aquarium. They also harbor various microfauna that are consumed by other aquarium inhabitants.

Halameda Algae
The characteristic feature of Halameda algae is the chain of circular plates arranged end-to-end. These green algae secrete calcium carbonate in the tissues. For the optimum growth of Halameda algae, there should be adequate amount of light and calcium in the saltwater aquarium. They are not tolerant to excess nitrates and phosphates, hence often used as the indicators of a healthy aquarium environment.

Valonia Algae
Valonia algae, commonly known as bubble algae or sea grapes, resemble a cluster of bubbles. Very often, spores of this green algae are introduced in the saltwater aquarium through rocks that are used in the tank. They are deep green in color and soft to touch. Proper pruning of Valonia algae is necessary to avoid uncontrolled growth and overtaking of Coralline algae.

Encrusting Coralline Algae
Encrusting coralline algae, belonging to Rhodophyta are found in several colors like white, pink, purple, red and green. Similar to corals, they secrete hard calcareous shells, hence named as coralline algae. By growing coralline algae of variant colors, you can create a beautiful color pattern in the saltwater aquarium. Unlike other algae types, Encrusting coralline algae are difficult to establish and should be grown under the optimum light conditions.

Algal growth in a saltwater aquarium is usually seen even without introducing them. If not controlled properly, the excess growth of algae can damage the aquarium by rapidly altering the water chemistry and affecting the aquarium inhabitants. One of the most common examples is the diatom that appears brown in color. If left untreated, these brown algae will develop on the aquarium walls, rocks and other exposed surfaces. Effective elimination of algae can be done by using specific media that remove the phosphates and silicates.