algae ID

[cloak]

This isn't my picture, but were trying to find out what kind of algae this is. The owner said he bought the rocks from you. Thanks. :)

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w16/jAb83_2007/cotton%20candy%20algae_zpsqcpstn6t.jpg (http://s172.photobucket.com/user/jAb83_2007/media/cotton%20candy%20algae_zpsqcpstn6t.jpg.html)

[figuerres]

looks like red hair algae, depending on how wiry the strands are, if the strands are thin and soft hair - pull it and get stuff to eat it if you can, if the strands are thick, kind of tough and kind of curly then it might be a better kind that you can keep some as long as you keep it from spreading.

[cloak]

Here's a closer picture.

http://i172.photobucket.com/albums/w16/jAb83_2007/cotton%20candy%201_zpsx1tyrkaf.jpg (http://s172.photobucket.com/user/jAb83_2007/media/cotton%20candy%201_zpsx1tyrkaf.jpg.html)

[CuzzA]

Callithamnion aka Cotton Candy Algae.

[UNCsalt]

the large mexican turbo snails will devour it..

[CuzzA]

I've read this algae is not very common and just about anything will go to town on it. Must taste good, I believe it has beta carotene in it which is why it has a red-pink color. IMO, some species of it are also quite attractive.

[cloak]

Callithamnion aka Cotton Candy Algae.

Yeah, that's kind of what I figured. I agree it does look kind of pretty, but almost all of the literature I've seen says that it can be a very invasive algae if your not careful.

http://www.reefcleaners.org/nuisance-algae-id-guide

http://www.reefkeeping.com/issues/2002-12/nftt/index.php

http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=745530&highlight=cotton+candy