How to Improve the Growth of Coralline Algae

Coralline algae grows on live rocks in an aquarium to add depth and color to salt water tanks. The algae comes in a variety of colors, including white, purple, red and pink and grows more effectively under optimal conditions. The temperature, water chemistry and other factors will encourage the growth of coralline algae, which will in turn make any aquarium more colorful.

Things You'll Need

  • Unwanted toothbrush
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Instructions

    • 1

      Locate or purchase a live rock that is already well covered with coralline algae. These can be found at most pet stores. Adding the rock to the aquarium will allow it to spread more quickly.

    • 2

      Scrub any surfaces or rocks with an unwanted toothbrush. The scraping will release the algae into the water, allowing it to spread and grow more quickly on other surfaces.

    • 3

      Place the tank in an area that has low to moderate light. The algae will grow and spread under these conditions as it mimics the light received under the ocean, where the algae naturally occurs.

    • 4

      Change the water on a regular schedule, such as once every two weeks or every month. This will keep the phosphate and nitrate levels in the water lower, which will encourage the algae's growth.