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List of marine aquarium plant species

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A planted reef aquarium filled with blade caulerpa (Caulerpa prolifera)
A seagrass aquarium housing several seagrass meadow inhabitants

Aquatic plants are used to give the aquarium a natural appearance, oxygenate the water, and provide habitat for fish, especially fry (babies) and for invertebrates. Some aquarium fish and invertebrates also eat live plants. Hobby aquarists use aquatic plants for aquascaping.

Marine algae are also included in this list for convenience, despite the fact that many species are technically classified as protists, not plants.

Brown macroalgae

False sargassum

Brown macroalgae are sometimes seasonally available in the aquarium trade and under suitable conditions, will grow quite prolifically. They possess the pigment Fucoxanthin which gives them their coloration ranging from yellow to dark brown. A few are desirable yet many are pests with some species being rather difficult to remove, often making their way into aquariums on live rock.[1]

Common name Image Taxonomy Care Level Growth rate Lighting Waterflow Palatable Description Max size
Deep-toothed gulfweed
Sargassum platycarpum Expert[2] Slow[2] High[2] Moderate-High[2] Not really[2] This species commonly has pneumatocysts to keep it upright. Individuals may also have a holdfast which are the most suitable for aquariums. It should frequently be pruned.[2] 30 in (76.2 cm)[2]
Encrusting fan-leaf algae Lobophora sp. Moderate[3] Moderate[3] Low-Moderate[3] Low-Moderate[3] Somewhat[3] It is very similar to Scroll algae although it is not a calcified algae. It is rubbery to the touch and because it comes from deep waters, it doesn't require much lighting.[3] 10 in (25.4 cm)[3]
False sargassum
Cystoseira sp. Moderate[4] Slow[4] Moderate-High[4] Moderate-High[4] No[4] Commonly confused with Sargassum which has flat blades while False Sargassum has tight toothlike appendages. It also has lower nutrient requirements.[4] 18 in (45.7 cm)[4]
Iridescent algae
Dictyota sp. Moderate[5] Moderate[5] Moderate-High[5] Moderate-High[5] Somewhat[5] The appearance of species within this genus vary greatly. Some display blue iridescence while others are a dull olive color. Larger bladed species are desirable as smaller ones can become invasive. They are all quite delicate however and have been known to clog pumps.[5] 12 in (30.5 cm)[5]
Leafy flat-blade algae Stypopodium zonale This species of algae produces highly toxic extracts that are harmless toward smaller grazers including amphipods and polychaetes yet are capable of killing herbivorous reef fish. Death occurs within 10 hours of the algae's introduction to a well-aerated aquarium during which the fish will attempt to jump out.[6]
Pyramid seaweed
Turbinaria sp. Expert[7] Slow[7] High[7] Moderate-High[7] To some fish[7] This tough macroalgae is rubbery to the touch and anchors itself to substrate using a holdfast. Some individuals grow in tight clusters while others bear a tall branch. It can be quite hardy if provided with strong flow and lighting so it should be placed near the top of an aquarium.[7] 2 in (5.1 cm)[7]
Scroll algae
Padina sp. Expert[8] Slow[8] Moderate-High[8] Moderate-High[8] No[8] Also known as Potato algae, it is quite desirable given its beauty. It requires calcium supplementation as it is the only calcified brown macroalgae.[8] 6 in (15.2 cm)[8]
White-vein sargassum
Sargassum hystrix Expert[9] Slow[9] High[9] Moderate-High[9] Not really[9] This species is tolerable of cooler temperatures that most other macroalgae and attaches itself to hard surfaces using a holdfast. A variety known as Sargassum hystrix buxifolium exists and lacks a white colored mid rib.[9] 24 in (61.0 cm)[9]

Green macroalgae

Green feather algae

Green macroalgae are extremely diverse and abundant, coming in a wide variety of shapes. They possess the pigment Chlorophyll which gives them their coloration ranging from bright green to yellow or dark jade. Reproduction via fragmentation or the releasing of spores are utilized by this macroalgae group. The second option, which is used by the genus, Caulerpa, can be quite problematic in an aquarium.[10] Some species of green macroalgae have greater ease surviving in high nutrient environments or inadequate water parameters than other kinds of macroalgae and are generally the most suitable for nutrient removal due to their rapid growth rates.[11]

Common name Image Taxonomy Care Level Growth rate Lighting Waterflow Palatable Description Max size
Basket weave
Anadyomene sp. Moderate[12] Slow[12] Moderate[12] Moderate[12] To some fish[12] Most specimens make their way into aquariums through live rock and calcareous algae collected from the wild. It possesses irregularly shaped blades and is quite variable.[12] 10 in (25.4 cm)[12]
Bladed sand moss
Caulerpa prolifera Easy[13] Fast[13] Moderate[13] Low-Moderate[13] Somewhat[13] Out of all the Caulerpa species that are commercially available, this one is the most popular and widespread. It desires sandy substrates and will grow wide leaves in areas with stronger flow and taller, thinner leaves in calmer environments.[13] 6 in (15.2 cm)[13]
Bubble algae
Valonia sp. Expert[14] Moderate[14] High[14] Moderate-High[14] No[14] This algae is usually viewed by aquarists as pests, often entering aquariums on live rock. It has the ability to choke out corals if it grows too large and unfortunately, very few animals consume it (one of which is the Emerald crab (Mithraculus sculptus)). They may be desirable in marine planted aquariums however.[14][15] 8 in (20.3 cm)[14]
Dead man's fingers
Codium sp. Easy[16] Slow[16] Moderate-High[16] High[16] No[16] Some forms of this algae feature a single holdfast with multiple braches and others encrust surfaces taking on a blob-like shape. They should be placed on hard surfaces and kept in water temperatures under 80 °F (26.7 °C).[16][17] 12 in (30.5 cm)[16]
Fern algae
Caulerpa mexicana Easy[18] Moderate[18] Moderate[18] Low-Moderate[18] Somewhat to fish[18] This species of Caulerpa can grow on hard surfaces as well as sandy and muddy substrates. In turbulent surroundings, it grows somewhat compact and in calmer surroundings, it may grow taller. Its adaptability to the amount of light it requires is evident in the fact that it can grow without direct lighting amongst other algae.[18] 8 in (20.3 cm)[18]
Finger algae
Neomeris annulata Moderate[19] Slow[19] Moderate[19] Low[19] Somewhat[19] This species of algae way grow in small clusters or individually. It is lightly calcified and should be provided with calcium supplementation.[19] 4 in (10.2 cm)[19]
Flat-top bristle brush Penicillus pyriformis Easy[20] Moderate[20] Moderate-High[20] Low-Moderate[20] No[20] This species of Penicillus grows to be significantly than others of its own genus and features a completely flattened top. In aquariums, a mature specimen will often die, only to produce new individuals at its base. It requires an at least 4 in (10.2 cm) deep sand bed and calcium supplementation.[20] 8 in (20.3 cm)[20]
Giant feather algae Caulerpa asmeadii Easy[21] Moderate[21] Moderate[21] Low-Moderate[21] Somewhat[21] This is a large species of Caulerpa although unlike its relatives, it won't outgrow its environment. Younger individuals may be confused with Caulerpa sertularioides.[21] 14 in (35.6 cm)[21]
Green feather algae
Caulerpa sertularioides Easy[22] Fast[22] Moderate[22] Low-Moderate[22] Yes[22] This Caulerpa species is very popular among hobbyists although it is a very fast grower, taking over aquariums. However, it is a great choice for refugiums considering how many fish and invertebrates enjoy eating it. It prefers to grow on hard surfaces, yet its adaptability allows it to also grow on the sand bed as well.[22] 8 in (20.3 cm)[22]
Killer algae
Caulerpa taxifolia Easy[23] Fast[23] Moderate[23] Low-Moderate[23] No[23] Also known as Fern algae, this algae is able to survive in a wide range of temperatures and for this reason can become quite invasive in the wild.[23] 10 in (25.4 cm)[23]
Mermaid's fan
Udotea flabellum Easy[24] Moderate[24] Moderate-High[24] Moderate[24] No[24] This species of calcified algae is very popular although it requires a sand bed of at least 4 in (10.2 cm) deep along with calcium supplementation. Given that its requirements are met and conditions are favorable, an individual Mermaid's fan will rapidly reproduce, forming new individuals at its base.[24] 12 in (30.5 cm)[24]
Mermaid's shaving brush
Penicillus capitatus Easy[25] Moderate[25] Moderate-High[25] Low-Moderate[25] No[25] This species of algae generally grows out of the sand bed although it may grow on rocks. It requires a sand bed of at least 4 in (10.2 cm) deep along with calcium supplementation like many other calcified stem plants. In aquariums, a mature specimen will often die, only to produce new individuals at its base.[25] 8 in (20.3 cm)[25]
Mermaid's wine glass
Acetabularia sp. Moderate[26] Slow[26] High[26] Low[26] Yes[26] This algae usually does not live long in aquariums. It is somewhat calcified and requires calcium supplementation and is very delicate so care should be taken when removing it from water. It prefers to grow on hard surfaces.[26] 4 in (10.2 cm)[26]
Money plant Halimeda discoidea Easy[27] Moderate[27] Moderate-High[27] Moderate[27] Somewhat[27] Out of all the Halimeda species, this one possesses the largest segments and unlike its relatives, it only grows on hard surfaces. It requires calcium supplementation as it is calcified.[27] 10 in (25.4 cm)[27]
Neptune's shaving brush
Penicillus dumetosus Easy[28] Moderate[28] Moderate-High[28] Low-Moderate[28] No[28] This species of Penicillus grows to be significantly than others of its own genus and features a top more tapered and flat. In aquariums, a mature specimen will often die, only to produce new individuals at its base. It requires an at least 4 in (10.2 cm) deep sand bed and calcium supplementation.[28] 8 in (20.3 cm)[28]
Palm tree algae
Caulerpa paspaloides Easy[29] Moderate[29] Moderate[29] Low-Moderate[29] Somewhat[29] This species of Caulerpa is a good nutrient export choice as it pollutes aquariums less often than its relatives. It should be pruned regularly as its fine structure captures undesirable substances. Depending on lighting conditions, it will take on different forms.[29] 12 in (30.5 cm)[29]
Pinecone algae
Rhipocephalus phoenix Easy[29] Moderate[29] Moderate-High[29] Moderate[29] No[29] This algae attaches itself to sandy substrate (and occasionally rocks) using a bulb-like structure possessing several rhizoids. It requires an at least 4 in (10.2 cm) deep sand bed and calcium supplementation.[29] 6 in (15.2 cm)[29]
Prostrate sea cactus
Halimeda opuntia Easy[30] Moderate[30] Moderate-High[30] Moderate[30] No[30] This calcified algae grows in large mounds and attaches itself to rocks and sand using several holdfasts. It is rarely available in the aquarium trade and requires considerable calcium supplementation.[30] 10 in (25.4 cm)[30]
Sawtooth algae
Caulerpa serrulata Easy[31] Moderate[31] Moderate[31] Low-Moderate[31] Somewhat[31] This smaller sized, hardy species of algae is often available and put in refugiums where it prefers to grow on small rocky objects. It features a stiff composition which makes it unappetizing to most organisms.[31] 5 in (12.7 cm)[31]
Sea grapes
Caulerpa racemosa Easy[32] Fast[32] Moderate-High[32] Moderate-High[32] Somewhat[32] Unlike other species of Caulerpa, this one has round, clustered formations. It can quickly strip a tank of nutrients so care should be taken To not to let it grow too large.[32] Banana algae (Caulerpa racemosa cylindracea) and Saucer algae (Caulerpa racemosa peltata) are two varieties of this algae in the aquarium trade.[33][34] 8 in (20.3 cm)[32]
Sea lettuce
Meersalat-Ulva-lactuca
Meersalat-Ulva-lactuca
 Ulva sp. Easy[35] Fast[35] Moderate-High[35] Moderate[35] Yes[35] It is almost as popular as Spaghetti algae and like it, is good at absorbing excess nutrients and housing microinvertebrates in aquariums. Unlike the Spaghetti algae, Sea lettuce may feature a holdfast and is relished by many aquarium inhabitants. It is usually kept in refugiums where it may clog unprotected return pumps.[35] 8 in (20.3 cm) mound[35]
Spaghetti algae
Chaetomorpha sp. Easy[36] Fast[36] Low-High[36] Moderate[36] Not really[36] Also called Chaeto, this unique algae grows as a tangled mass of green filaments. This species is very hardy and can serve a useful role as habitat for microinvertebrates and an absorber of excess nutrients in aquariums. It is often kept in a refugium where it can either be tumbled or float around.[36] 24 in (61.0 cm) mound[36]
Three finger leaf algae
Halimeda incrassata Easy[37] Moderate[37] Moderate-High[37] Moderate[37] No[37] This algae can grow in different forms with some taking on clump-like forms and others growing 5 to 6 branches. It requires calcium supplementation and an at least 4 in (10.2 cm) deep sand bed. They generally stay small in aquariums, but will rapidly reproduce when conditions are favorable, growing new plants near their bases.[37] 8 in (20.3 cm)[37]
Toadstool algae
Cladophora prolifera Easy[38] Slow[38] High[38] Moderate[38] This species of algae grows in small clumps on rocks and rubble featuring many rigid, finely branched filaments. Many aquarists believe it is a nuisance considering how once it establishes itself in an aquarium, it will become hard to remove.[39][38]
Tufted joint algae Cymopolia barbata Moderate[40] Slow[40] High[40] Moderate-High[40] Not really[40] This species of algae is rarely available although it may enter aquariums through live rock. It is quite interesting, but it requires calcium supplementation as it is calcified.[40] 12 in (30.5 cm)[40]
Turtleweed
Chlorodesmis sp. Expert[41] Moderate[41] High[41] Moderate-High[41] No[41] This popular algae is often mistaken for hair algae and enters the aquarium trade through live rock and coral. It is toxic, making it inedible and capable of effecting coral growth.[41] 8 in (20.3 cm)[41]
Zipper algae
Caulerpa cupressoides Easy[42] Slow[42] Moderate-High[42] Moderate[42] No[42] This interesting and undemanding species of Caulerpa prefers to grow on sand, however it can grow off of harder surfaces.[42] 8 in (20.3 cm)[42]

Red macroalgae

Ogo

Red macroalgae are highly sought after in the aquarium trade given their intense coloration and striking appearance. They possess the pigment Phycoerythrin which gives them their vivid coloration ranging from red to orange to blue. For some species, identification is difficult and slight variations due to location and depth may exist.[43]

Common name Image Taxonomy Care Level Growth rate Lighting Waterflow Palatable Description Max size
Coralline algae
Corallinales sp. Moderate[44][45] Slow[44][45] Moderate-High[44][45] Moderate-High[44][45] No[44][45] This order of red, calcified macroalgae is highly variable, taking on both geniculate (branching) and nongeniculate (encrusting and plating) forms as well as a variety of colors, generally ranging from purple to pink. It often makes its way into aquariums through the introduction of live rock or wild caught snails and hermit crabs where they are highly desirable as a result of their attractive appearance and ability to outcompete nuisance algae for space. However, since Coralline algae readily attaches itself to hard surfaces, it can become problematic when it grows on glass and aquarium equipment as it is hard to remove due to its carbonate skeleton.[46][47][48] 10 in (25.4 cm)[44]
Flagweed
Halymenia floresii Moderate[49] Slow[49] Low-Moderate[49] Moderate-High[49] Yes[49] This sktriking, popular, highly palatable, and easily obtained species of Halymenia, like others belonging in its genus, is very delicate and possesses a smooth, gelatinous texture. It should be allowed to float freely as it rarely forms a holdfast. Other names for this algae include Red sea lettuce and Dragon's tongue.[49] 20 in (50.8 cm)[49]
Long ogo Gracilaria parvisipora Easy[50] Moderate[50] Moderate-High[50] Moderate-High[50] Not really[50] The coloration of this species of algae depends on the depth it is collected in ranging from bright red to yellow or green. It is the most popular of the red Gracilaria species in the aquarium trade, being widely used in refugiums and hardy under a variety of conditions. It is also an excellent food source for a variety of herbivorous reef inhabitants.[50] 10 in (25.4 cm)[50]
Red fern Haliptilon sp. Easy[51] Moderate[51] Moderate-High[51] Moderate[51] Somewhat[51] This popular genus of macroalgae (also known as smooth kelp) grows calcified branches with fern shaped blades and has a red or pink coloration. It can be found growing on live rock and some species are epiphytic and grow on other algae. Most species in this genus are temperate water species yet they can tolerate warmer temperatures.[51] 8 in (20.3 cm)[51]
Red grape kelp
Botryocladia sp. Easy[52] Slow[52] Moderate[52] Moderate[52] Yes[52] This beautiful, highly palatable genus of macroalgae bears a striking resemblance to a cluster of grapes and possesses stiff, lightly calcified branches covered in bright red pneumatocysts. It may also be sold under the name Red grape caulerpa despite not belonging in the Caulerpa genus.[52] 18 in (45.7 cm)[52]

Mangroves

Red mangrove

Most mangroves that end up in the aquarium trade are either collected as seeds or grown on land.[53] Their leaves should be exposed to the air, well beyond the surface of the water, and be sprayed with freshwater regularly to prevent salt buildup. They also require intense lighting and a layer of substrate, not too shallow as to let the tree topple over and not too fine which would make parts of the sandbed to go anaerobic.[54]

Common name Image Taxonomy Care Level Growth rate Description Max size
Black mangrove
Cayos Mangrove02
Cayos Mangrove02
 Avicennia germinans Moderate Slow 70'
Red mangrove
Rhizophora mangle Easy Slow 80'
White mangrove Laguncularia racemosa Expert Slow 60'

Seagrass

Turtlegrass

See also

References

  1. ^ : BROWN MACROALGAE (PHAEOPHYTA) [1]. In: Marine Plants in the Aquarium [2]
  2. ^ a b c d e f g SARGASSUM PLATYCARPUM [3]. In: Marine Plants in the Aquarium [4]
  3. ^ a b c d e f g LOBOPHORA SP. [5]. In: Marine Plants in the Aquarium [6]
  4. ^ a b c d e f g CYSTOSEIRA SP. [7]. In: Marine Plants in the Aquarium [8]
  5. ^ a b c d e f g DICTOYA SP. [9]. In: Marine Plants in the Aquarium [10]
  6. ^ Lüning, Klaus (1990). Seaweeds: Their Environment, Biogeography, and Ecophysiology. Wiley-Interscience.
  7. ^ a b c d e f g TURBINARIA SP. [11]. In: Marine Plants in the Aquarium [12]
  8. ^ a b c d e f g PADINA SP. [13]. In: Marine Plants in the Aquarium [14]
  9. ^ a b c d e f g SARGASSUM HYSTRIX VAR. BUXIFOLIUM [15]. In: Marine Plants in the Aquarium [16]
  10. ^ : GREEN MACROALGAE (CHLOROPHYTA) [17]. In: Marine Plants in the Aquarium [18]
  11. ^ : MACRO ALGAE – EVER WANTED A PLANTED SALTWATER AQUARIUM ? [19]. In: Reef Aquarium [20]
  12. ^ a b c d e f g ANADYOMENE SP. [21]. In: Marine Plants in the Aquarium [22]
  13. ^ a b c d e f g CAULERPA PROLIFERA [23]. In: Marine Plants in the Aquarium [24]
  14. ^ a b c d e f g VALONIA SP. [25]. In: Marine Plants in the Aquarium [26]
  15. ^ Valonia [27]. In: Melev's Reef [28]
  16. ^ a b c d e f g CODIUM SP. [29]. In: Marine Plants in the Aquarium [30]
  17. ^ Codium green seaweed [31]. In: Wild Singapore [32]
  18. ^ a b c d e f g CAULERPA MEXICANA [33]. In: Marine Plants in the Aquarium [34]
  19. ^ a b c d e f g NEOMERIS ANNULATA [35]. In: Marine Plants in the Aquarium [36]
  20. ^ a b c d e f g PENICILLUS PYRIFORMIS [37]. In: Marine Plants in the Aquarium [38]
  21. ^ a b c d e f g CAULERPA ASHMEADII [39]. In: Marine Plants in the Aquarium [40]
  22. ^ a b c d e f g CAULERPA SERTULARIODES [41]. In: Marine Plants in the Aquarium [42]
  23. ^ a b c d e f g CAULERPA TAXIFOLIA [43]. In: Marine Plants in the Aquarium [44]
  24. ^ a b c d e f g UDOTEA FLABELLUM [45]. In: Marine Plants in the Aquarium [46]
  25. ^ a b c d e f g PENICILLUS CAPITATUS [47]. In: Marine Plants in the Aquarium [48]
  26. ^ a b c d e f g ACETABULARIA SP. [49]. In: Marine Plants in the Aquarium [50]
  27. ^ a b c d e f g HALIMEDA DISCOIDEA [51]. In: Marine Plants in the Aquarium [52]
  28. ^ a b c d e f g PENICILLUS DUMETOSUS [53]. In: Marine Plants in the Aquarium [54]
  29. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n CAULERPA PASPALOIDES [55]. In: Marine Plants in the Aquarium [56]
  30. ^ a b c d e f g HALIMEDA OPUNTIA [57]. In: Marine Plants in the Aquarium [58]
  31. ^ a b c d e f g CAULERPA SERRULATA [59]. In: Marine Plants in the Aquarium [60]
  32. ^ a b c d e f g CAULERPA RACEMOSA [61]. In: Marine Plants in the Aquarium [62]
  33. ^ CAULERPA RACEMOSA VAR. CYLINDRACEA [63]. In: Marine Plants in the Aquarium [64]
  34. ^ CAULERPA RACEMOSA VAR. PELTATA [65]. In: Marine Plants in the Aquarium [66]
  35. ^ a b c d e f g ULVA SP. [67]. In: Marine Plants in the Aquarium [68]
  36. ^ a b c d e f g CHAETOMORPHA SP. [69]. In: Marine Plants in the Aquarium [70]
  37. ^ a b c d e f g HALIMEDA INCRASSATA [71]. In: Marine Plants in the Aquarium [72]
  38. ^ a b c d e Cladophora prolifera [73]. In: Saltcorner [74]
  39. ^ Cladophora prolifera [75]. In: Gulf Coast Ecosystems [76]
  40. ^ a b c d e f g CYMOPOLIA BARBATA [77]. In: Marine Plants in the Aquarium [78]
  41. ^ a b c d e f g CHLORODESMIS SP. [79]. In: Marine Plants in the Aquarium [80]
  42. ^ a b c d e f g CAULERPA CUPRESSOIDES [81]. In: Marine Plants in the Aquarium [82]
  43. ^ : RED MACROALGAE (RHODOPHYTA) [83]. In: Marine Plants in the Aquarium [84]
  44. ^ a b c d e f HYDROLITHON SP. [85]. In: Marine Plants in the Aquarium [86]
  45. ^ a b c d e LITHOPHYLLUM SP. [87]. In: Marine Plants in the Aquarium [88]
  46. ^ CORALLINE ALGAE – THE ULTIMATE GUIDE [89]. In: ARC Reef - Atlantic Reef Conservation [90]
  47. ^ Coralline [91]. In: Reef Cleaners - Clean up Crews and Macroalgae [92]
  48. ^ Coralline Algae: What Is It and Why Is It Important in Reef Tanks? [93]. In: Reefs.com - Saltwater Aquarium Blog - Marine Aquarium Blog [94]
  49. ^ a b c d e f g HALYMENIA FLORESIA [95]. In: Marine Plants in the Aquarium [96]
  50. ^ a b c d e f g GRACILARIA PARVISIPORA [97]. In: Marine Plants in the Aquarium [98]
  51. ^ a b c d e f g BOTRYOCLADIA SP. [99]. In: Marine Plants in the Aquarium [100]
  52. ^ a b c d e f g BOTRYOCLADIA SP. [101]. In: Marine Plants in the Aquarium [102]
  53. ^ : MANGROVES [103]. In: Marine Plants in the Aquarium [104]
  54. ^ : How to properly care for mangrove trees in ‘aquaria’ [105]. In: Reef Builders | The Reef and Marine Aquarium Blog [106]
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