After having read numerous threads, including comments in my own, there is always a reference to coralline, and how good it is to have in your tank.
So I had to ask why, seeing as it is a type of algae. What makes it better to have than others?
I have searched around on the internet, and checked a few books and have come to the following conclusions :
Coralline is an indicator of a healthy tank. Certain factors contribute to coralline growing in your tank, but from what I have read, it can only be introduced by live rocks. Factors that are important in having it grow, are obviously certain parameters, very important ones being alkalinity, sg, Ca and lighting.
Alkalinity has to be in the normal rang (not sure of exact parameters right now), sg around 1,024, Ca around 400 and they grow under good lighting, even actinics.
Why is it good? Various reasons have been given. From the fact that wherever it grows, no other lower form of algae (micro algae) should grow. And it provides calcarous structure to reefs, and helps cement reefs together.
'Coralline algae are especially important in reef construction, as they lay down calcium carbonate as calcite. Although they contribute considerable bulk to the calcium carbonate structure of coral reefs, their more important rôle in most areas of the reef, is in acting as the cement which binds the reef materials together into a solid and sturdy structure.' - The Botany Dept - University of the Western Cape.
So, that is what I know so far. Will be doing some more reading and research.
Any input will be appreciated.
So I had to ask why, seeing as it is a type of algae. What makes it better to have than others?
I have searched around on the internet, and checked a few books and have come to the following conclusions :
Coralline is an indicator of a healthy tank. Certain factors contribute to coralline growing in your tank, but from what I have read, it can only be introduced by live rocks. Factors that are important in having it grow, are obviously certain parameters, very important ones being alkalinity, sg, Ca and lighting.
Alkalinity has to be in the normal rang (not sure of exact parameters right now), sg around 1,024, Ca around 400 and they grow under good lighting, even actinics.
Why is it good? Various reasons have been given. From the fact that wherever it grows, no other lower form of algae (micro algae) should grow. And it provides calcarous structure to reefs, and helps cement reefs together.
'Coralline algae are especially important in reef construction, as they lay down calcium carbonate as calcite. Although they contribute considerable bulk to the calcium carbonate structure of coral reefs, their more important rôle in most areas of the reef, is in acting as the cement which binds the reef materials together into a solid and sturdy structure.' - The Botany Dept - University of the Western Cape.
So, that is what I know so far. Will be doing some more reading and research.
Any input will be appreciated.
