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 Species
of the brown algae Sargassum are among the most prolific of all
brown algae in the Caribbean. These include both the anchored and free floating
varieties. As a group, they are highly variable in shape, size and
distribution and can survive in much cooler water than other
tropical macro algae. The anchored varieties are of the most interest
to the aquarium hobby, as the free floating patches such as S.
Fluitans are not easily kept. Species of Sargassum Hystrix feature large, dark
brown leaves with a distinctive white mid rib. This particular
variation, identified as Buxifolium (pictured) shares the same
basic characteristics, but lacks the pronounced mid rib. It
is a shallow water variety, found in depths of about 45 feet, that grows
attached to rocks or other hard surfaces by a single holdfast.
Most anchored varieties have a very sturdy, thick upright, that is
able to securely anchor itself in very turbulent environments. In
the aquarium they require bright lighting and moderate to high
flow rates for optimal growth.
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Aquarium
Care Information |
Scientific Name: Sargassum
Hystrix Sp.
Common Name: Sargassum
Origin: Gulf
of Mexico, Caribbean, Atlantic
Depth Collected: 3
- 45 feet
Maximum Height : 24"
Growth Rate: Slow
Light: High
Temperature: 68-78
Propagation: Fragmentation,
Sporulation
Difficulty: Advanced Food Value:
Not very palatable
Nutrient Uptake:
Fair
Flow Rate:
Moderate to High
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