Algae ID, and what eats it?

[skinz78]

I have this type of algae in my Bio Cube, it's kind of like bubble algae but not bubble algae.... It grows like wildfire and I need to find something that eats it.

 

[Mike J.]

Through the process of ruling out I have come to the conclusion that it is Dictyosphaeria. Also known as Buttonweed, but under the listing of Bubble Algae. Diadema urchins are known to eat it. Also lists gastropods (shelled and shell-less snails), but not which ones. Also Mithraculus crabs.

 

[skinz78]

Thanks, I'll look into it!

 

[skinz78]

Hmm I'm thinking it may be Colpomenia sinuosa? I wonder what eats it?

In the process of searching I've found this ID database that's pretty good! Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute-lo

 

[Mike J.]

I'm actually working right now, so I wish I could respond better; I will later. I've studied that site and the algae that you suspect. I'm still thinking the same thing - buttonweed. I don't see any openings in the algae in your picture, its more like bubbles.

You have a distinct advantage because you can see it.

In any case, even if I am wrong, I would think the same animals would eat it.

Sorry, I researched through books, but I'll try to provide a site later.

Is there a reason you're searching Pacific Panama? Where did your rock come from?

 

[Mike J.]

Dictyosphaeria cavernosa Click on the photo.

It might be one of those that you'd need a microscope to tell the difference.

Here's one from the Caribbean: http://species-identification.org/species.php?species_group=caribbean_diving_guide&id=492

One thing is for sure, it is an invasive algae.

 

[Mike J.]

I've searched extensively and can't find a Dictyosphaeria picture that's brown. So, maybe you nailed it. It certainly is a very close genus and I would treat it the same and stay on top of it. Because as you know it is highly invasive.

 

[skinz78]

Yeah I don't think it's the Dictyosphaeria cavernosa. It grows pretty rapidly.