Red Carpet Algae
£15.00
Description
Halymenia maculata (Red Carpet / Red Macroalgae)
AT A GLANCE
Quick facts: Care level: Moderate · Lighting: Low–Moderate · Flow: Low · Feeding: Absorbs nutrients from water (no direct feeding required)
WHY SHOULD I BUY THIS ALGAE?
Halymenia maculata is a striking red macroalgae valued for its vibrant, deep red, carpet-like fronds. Its soft, wavy thalli provide visual contrast in reef tanks and refugiums while serving as an excellent habitat for copepods, amphipods, and other microfauna. Unlike some other red macroalgae, Halymenia can tolerate lower light conditions, making it a versatile addition for both refugiums and carefully maintained display tanks.
CARE LEVEL
Moderate
Best for aquarists with some experience maintaining stable water parameters.
WATER REQUIREMENTS & GENERAL CARE
- Temperature: 24–28 °C
- Salinity: 1.023–1.026 (32–35 ppt)
- pH: 7.8–8.4
- Nitrates (NO₃): 2–15 ppm
- Phosphates (PO₄): 0.01–0.05 ppm
Stable water chemistry and moderate nutrient levels are important for deep coloration and healthy growth.
LIGHTING
- Low–Moderate
- Photoperiod: 10–14 hours/day
Prefers indirect or subdued lighting; bright light may cause bleaching or discoloration.
PLACEMENT
- Refugium or Low-Light Display Areas
- Can be loosely anchored on sand, rubble, or low rockwork
Ensure fronds have gentle circulation and are not smothered by stronger macroalgae.
FLOW
- Low
Gentle movement keeps detritus from accumulating on fronds and encourages healthy growth.
FEEDING
- Photosynthetic: No direct feeding required
- Nutrient Requirements: Absorbs dissolved nitrates, phosphates, and trace elements from water
Regular pruning prevents overgrowth and supports nutrient export in the system.
COMPATIBILITY & BEHAVIOR
- Temperament: Passive
- Safe for all reef fish and invertebrates
- Provides microhabitat for copepods, amphipods, and other small fauna
- Does not attach aggressively or sting corals
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
- Family: Halymeniaceae
- Origin: Indo-Pacific and tropical Atlantic regions
- Natural Habitat: Shallow reef flats, sheltered lagoons, and tide pools with gentle water flow
- Growth Form: Thin, wavy, carpet-like red thalli
WHY WE RECOMMEND THIS ALGAE
✔ Unique red coloration and carpet-like appearance
✔ Provides habitat for microfauna and beneficial organisms
✔ Hardy in low-light, nutrient-stable environments
✔ Adds natural aesthetic to refugiums and display tanks
DISCLAIMER
- Algae coloration may vary under different lighting or nutrient conditions
- Sensitive to sudden changes in water chemistry
- Prune carefully to prevent fronds from decaying and fouling the system
- Quarantine new algae to avoid unwanted pests
