I have some of this... Y branch algae, and I don't like it. It would be OK but it spreads really bad so I want it gone. Says on a database that the Black Long Spine Urchin eats it. Also emerald crabs. Anyone have experience with this algae? Or with the long spine urchins? They seem so big (clumsy) and was wondering what I should expect if I get one. I had an emerald crab and was not too impressed with his algae eating abilities. He became food for something in my tank. Thanks, James
I have never been able to grow macro algae in my main tanks and I would love to have your problem. I would trade you macro algae for my green mushrooms any day. I have a long spine urchin in both my tanks and they have been one of the longest inhabitants of both tanks. I wasn't aware that they were macro algae eaters, perhaps that is why I can't grow it. Despite poking me when I do maintenance from time to time when I am not careful they are not clumsy enough to knock things over and I have enjoyed having them in my tanks. Hope this helps.
That is good info. According to the database I went to the black long spines ate just about every kind of macro under the sun. So that probably is who is cleaning your house. Thanks, James
My suggestion would be a tang, I use the tangs in my tanks to control the excess growth in my 125. I think that would be a good solution along with the urchin. Another would be the foxface, they are voracious algae eaters. Also I would not be too quick to completly rid my tank of this macro. I agree with Chris, this is not a bad thing if controled and it does help with your water quality. If you don't have a refugium it is helping more than it's hurting.
Thanks for the input! I do have a fuge with chaeto in it. I would like this marco just fine but it spreads pretty fast. It just sprung up one day, not sure where I got it. I will let an urchin do its thing and hopefully just keep it under control. I would be happy to leave it the urchin can keep it within certain bounds. Thanks again.
The urchin will be easier to catch later if you decide you don't like him in there anymore. I got my Long Spine when it was tiny and now it is HUGE, in the fuge.... hey that rhymed :roll:
