Macro Algae Info Needed

[revhtree]

Ok, I am thinking about getting some macro algae for the fuge to cut back on phosphates. Here are a few questions.

1. What type of macro algae do you recommend? (Anything I should know about it, before I get it)

2. What type and how much lighting will I need?

3. What kind of maintence does macro require?

Thanks!

 

[ellisz]

chaeto(brillo pad) is the best, IMO. Does not need much light and will not go sexual on you.

I have some caulerpa as well that has not caused me problems but some don't like it becasue it can go sexual. I use a 20 watt PC mogul base bulb(6500K) with a cheap light fixture from HD and light my fuge on a reverse schedule as my tank.

HTH

 

[revhtree]

What do you need to do to keep it growing, and do you just drop it in the fuge?

 

[ellisz]

I just dropped mine in the fuge. I have some growing in a HOB filter I am using as a mini-fuge for my nano as well. No light on that one. It gets a little light from the canopy but that is it.

 

[fishman]

Rev
I also have some caulerpa too in my fuge....I just got some from the LFS and shoved it in the sand that is down there with the LR rubble. I have a 20 watt light as well and left it on 24/7. However didnt like the results as it was growing but way to slow. I bought 2- 75 watt energy effecient halogens and this has caused it to go crazy. Its coverning my rubble and all in my sump...so far so good.

 

[c0mf0rt]

I've got a 28watt PC fixutre on my fuge and you just drop it in...... I recommend chaeto too from everything I've read..... Put some in my tank a week or so ago....

 

[grimlock3000]

Here is what I am experimenting with:

Just a small 15w 6500K bulb over a HOB fuge. The Chaeto appears to be growing but I have not been measuring untl just yesterday. While growing, some of it is browning as well. I am hoping this is just because it is acclimating to new lights. Hopefully this AC300 fugre turns out good results for me and get those nitrates down to zero.

 

[ellisz]

That is the same as I have it on my 10 gal nano but I don't light the fuge. My canopy reflects enough light to the filter area. Stuff keeps growing out of the filter into the tank

 

[revhtree]

Where is the best place to get it, and how much would you suggest getting for the 75g? The fuge is a 10g inside a 30g sump.

 

[c0mf0rt]

I picked mine up off of ebay.... was happy with what I got... I wouldnt worry too much about how much you initially get becuase it will grow......