Red Ogo Algae
£20.00
Description
Gracilaria parvispora (Red Ogo Macroalgae)
AT A GLANCE
Quick facts: Care level: Easy · Lighting: Low–Moderate · Flow: Low–Moderate · Feeding: Absorbs nutrients from water (no direct feeding required)
WHY SHOULD I BUY THIS ALGAE?
Gracilaria parvispora, commonly known as Ogo, is a vibrant red macroalgae prized for both its aesthetic appeal and functional benefits in reef aquariums. Its delicate, branching fronds provide a natural habitat for copepods and amphipods, while serving as a favorite grazing food for herbivorous fish such as tangs and rabbitfish. Its bright red coloration adds visual contrast, making it a beautiful addition to both refugiums and display tanks.
CARE LEVEL
Easy
Ideal for beginner and experienced aquarists, especially those maintaining nutrient-stable systems.
WATER REQUIREMENTS & GENERAL CARE
- Temperature: 22–28 °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 parameters are essential for maintaining vibrant coloration and steady growth.
LIGHTING
- Low–Moderate
- Photoperiod: 10–14 hours/day
Grows well in subdued to moderate lighting, which helps maintain its red coloration and prevents bleaching.
PLACEMENT
- Refugium or Display Tank
- Can be loosely tied or anchored to rockwork or sand
Allow gentle water movement between fronds to prevent decay and ensure even nutrient absorption.
FLOW
- Low–Moderate
Gentle water movement encourages healthy growth and prevents detritus accumulation within fronds.
FEEDING
- Photosynthetic: No direct feeding required
- Nutrient Requirements: Absorbs dissolved nitrates, phosphates, and trace elements from water
Occasional pruning supports nutrient export and prevents overcrowding.
COMPATIBILITY & BEHAVIOR
- Temperament: Passive
- Safe for all reef fish and invertebrates
- Consumed by herbivorous species (tangs, blennies, rabbitfish)
- Provides habitat and breeding grounds for microfauna
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
- Family: Gracilariaceae
- Origin: Indo-Pacific, especially Hawaiian waters
- Natural Habitat: Shallow reef flats, lagoons, and seagrass beds with gentle water movement
- Growth Form: Delicate branching fronds; grows upright or loosely attached
WHY WE RECOMMEND THIS ALGAE
✔ Bright red color enhances visual appeal in refugiums and display tanks
✔ Provides natural grazing material for herbivorous fish
✔ Supports microfauna populations for a balanced ecosystem
✔ Hardy and easy to maintain in nutrient-stable systems
DISCLAIMER
- Algae coloration may vary with lighting and nutrient availability
- Prune regularly to prevent overcrowding and decay
- Sensitive to sudden changes in water chemistry
- Quarantine new algae to avoid introducing pests
