Chaeto Algae
£10.00
Description
Chaetomorpha crassa (Chaeto)
AT A GLANCE
Quick facts: Care level: Easy · Lighting: Moderate · Flow: Moderate–High · Feeding: Absorbs nutrients from water (no direct feeding required)
WHY SHOULD I BUY THIS ALGAE?
Chaetomorpha is a fast-growing green macroalgae highly valued for nutrient export and refugium filtration in marine aquariums. Its dense, curly strands provide shelter for copepods and other microfauna while helping reduce unwanted algae in the display tank. With bright green coloration and non-attaching growth, it’s a practical, visually appealing, and low-maintenance addition to any reef system.
CARE LEVEL
Easy
Ideal for both beginner and experienced aquarists with stable water conditions.
WATER REQUIREMENTS & GENERAL CARE
- Temperature: 22–28 °C
- Salinity: 1.023–1.026 (32–35 ppt)
- pH: 7.8–8.4
- Nitrates (NO₃): 2–20 ppm
- Phosphates (PO₄): 0.02–0.1 ppm
Stable water parameters with adequate nutrients are essential for consistent growth.
LIGHTING
- Moderate to High
- Photoperiod: 12–18 hours/day
Provides optimal growth in refugiums or display tanks with good lighting. Nutrient uptake and color are maximized under moderate to strong full-spectrum light.
PLACEMENT
- Refugium or Sump (preferred)
- Optional Display Placement: Loose placement on rockwork or sandbed
Ensure Chaetomorpha remains free-floating or loosely contained to allow circulation and prevent decaying spots inside the mass.
FLOW
- Moderate to High
Keeps algae tumbling, prevents detritus buildup, and promotes even nutrient absorption. Avoid stagnant areas.
FEEDING
- Photosynthetic: No direct feeding required
- Nutrient Requirements: Absorbs dissolved nitrates, phosphates, and trace elements from waterRegular pruning and adequate flow maintain optimal health and prevent decay.
COMPATIBILITY & BEHAVIOR
- Temperament: Passive
- Safe with all fish and invertebrates
- Provides habitat for microfauna (copepods, amphipods)
- Non-invasive; does not attach to live rock
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
- Family: Cladophoraceae
- Origin: Worldwide (common in marine refugiums)
- Natural Habitat: Shallow coastal waters, estuaries, and reef lagoons with moderate flow
- Growth Form: Free-floating, curly filamentous strands
WHY WE RECOMMEND THIS ALGAE
✔ Excellent nutrient exporter for reef systems
✔ Provides shelter and breeding ground for beneficial microfauna
✔ Low-maintenance, hardy macroalgae
✔ Safe for all tank inhabitants and easy to prune
DISCLAIMER
- Algae color may vary under different lighting conditions
- Growth rate depends on nutrient availability and water movement
- Prune regularly to maintain system balance
- Always quarantine new algae to avoid unwanted hitchhikers
