Scientific Name: Sargassum sp. (hystrix?)
Classification:     Brown Algae

Description:
Sargassum is a brown to olive green colored macro algae of the brown algae family.  It typically grows on live rock shortly after introduction into the reef tank.  These pictures show specimens that have grown on Fiji live rock.  The holdfasts are very strong fibrous affairs which sprout a growth of tough leaves.  Large specimens eventually form air bladders which keep the fronds afloat.  They do not typically get this large in the home reef tank.

Good or Bad?:
Sargassum is not as aggressive or as quick growing as Caulerpa, but it can grow into very dense mats that can shade adjacent corals.  That, coupled with the fact that it is not a very attractive addition to the reef tank means it is generally eradicated from the main display tank.  Growth that is not interfering with other specimens can be left alone if desired.

Home        Specimen Database Index       Macro Algae Index