Haliptilon sp.

A very popular species of red algae for use in the aquarium. Species of Haliptilon feature calcified or heavily calcified branches with a fern or feather shaped blades. Depending on the individual species, they are red or pinkish in coloration and typically grow in the reef flat and tidal zone on rocks and as epiphytic algae on other plants. Currently the broad leaf "red fern" (right) is the only species of Haliptilon imported to the United States. It stays small in the aquarium and rarely grows taller than a few inches. Although most species of Haliptilon are considered temperate water algae, some can tolerate warmer temperatures and do well in the marine aquarium. Both plants (pictured) are somewhat palatable to fish, but are mostly left alone in favor of more suitable algae.

Scientific Name: Haliptilon sp.

Common Name: Red Fern, Smooth Kelp

Origin: Indonesia, S. Pacific

Maximum Height : 8"

Growth Rate: Moderate

Light: Moderate to High

Temperature: 60-78

Propagation: Fragmentation, Sporulation

Difficulty: Easy

Food Value: Somewhat Palatable

Nutrient Uptake: Fair

Flow Rate: Moderate

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