Macroalgae Pack

Probably the single most common complaint of saltwater aquarists is the occurrence of benthic microalgal blooms. Whether it is a turf, hair or film type, it’s ugly. And that’s the least of it. Aside from making your tank look sick and gross, these nuisance algae can potentially kill your favorite corals!

As coraliculture has become more prevalent in the hobby, it has become clear that one of the most important aspects of growing corals is controlling benthic microalgal growth. While hobbyists continue to experiment with everything from clean-up crews to algicides to sterilizers, that old tried-and-true trick remains popular: Nutrient export via the refugium.

It’s rather simple in theory. Add a fast-growing macroalgae and provide it with intense lighting. As it grows, it takes up excess nutrients (such as nitrate and phosphate) directly from the aquarium waters. In this way, the macros are always competing with micros. The actual export of nutrients takes place, however, when portions of the crop are harvested from the refugium and thrown out with the trash.

You can use various types of seaweed for this. Each has its own needs and limitations regarding nutrient sequestration. But the Ultimate Macroalgae Pack takes a cue from proponents of the TRITON method, which places multiple macro species in fierce competition with each other for nutrients This practice often leads to more aggressive sequestration (and consequently tighter restrictions on unwanted microalgae).

And hey, the assortment of contrasting colors and textures is rather pretty!