The
genus Rhodophyta is the largest and most diverse group of tropical
and temperate marine algae with more than 2,000 species worldwide.
Their dominant pigment is phycoerythrin, which gives off rich
shades of red, orange and blue. Red macro algae are some of the
most varied and striking of all marine algae and are highly
sought after as aquarium specimens. Identification
can be difficult in some species, such as Gracilaria, and some
have slight variations depending on the location and depth.
Although this index is not a complete listing, it represents
species that are commonly available or sought after by marine
aquarists. As new species become available to the industry they
will be added. |