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Aquarium
Care Information |
Scientific Name: Caulerpa
Var. Peltata
Common Name: Saucer Algae,
Mushroom
Algae
Origin: Gulf
of Mexico, Atlantic, Caribbean
Depth Collected: 3-200 Feet
Maximum Height : 6"
Growth Rate: Fast
Light: Moderate
Temperature: 72-86
Propagation: Fragmentation,
Sporulation
Difficulty: Easy
Food Value:
Not very palatable
Nutrient Uptake:
Excellent
Flow Rate:
Moderate to High
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This
species of Caulerpa features a thick rhizome, with compact
clusters of rounded or flat topped uprights. This particular algae
is usually found in low light habitats such as shaded seawalls,
under ledges or in very deep water. In the aquarium it is an
excellent nutrient consumer, so much so that it must be monitored
so that it does not outgrow the available nutrients. It is highly
variable in characteristics depending on where it is collected.
There are two distinct varieties, although it is unsure if they
are separate species. One features smooth round caps, while the
other has a more concave shape with thin edges. In shallow water,
the uprights grow much taller, more closely resembling Caulerpa
Racemosa. Not palatable to fish. 
