Chaeto Trimming?

[bheron]

Ive had chaeto in my sump for some time now. Its growing like crazy. Ive heard people say that its good to actually trim it back.

Is this true? Or should I let it keep filling out?

[serpentman]

As it grows it can get quite dense. Whether or not its time to remove some is a judgement call. I remove some usually every 3-4 weeks.

When you do remove it, you should spread apart the remaining. This allows more light to get to all the algae and promotes growth. Aside from that, the true purpose of macroalgae propagation is to export nutrients. By removing excess growth, you are taking all the nutrients that it has absorbed out of the tank which is a good thing.

[bheron]

So, density is something to be concerned about then? Hmm ok.

I understand the nutrient part, so I can see what youre saying. It seems like recently its kind of slowed down, so maybe I need a trim.