Can I smother bubble algae?

[Errattiq]

Today I noticed a single, lowly bubble algae forming in a crevice of my rock. I “could” yank the rock out, scrub it and put it back. However, if it is possible to just mix up some of my two part holdfast stick epoxy and cover the entire hole I may take that into consideration for convenience alone. Anyone know if bubble algae can be “smothered out?” Lol. Thanks!

 

[rkpetersen]

I would just reach in with a tweezer and remove it.
If it breaks that's ok.
Rupturing small bubble algae generally doesn't release spores. That occurs when they get large and then rupture.

 

[reefwiser]

Yes I have preformed this and it does work. I never try manual removal of bubble algae always a chance of spreading the algae.

 

[Errattiq]

Awesome thank you!

 

[rkpetersen]

I never try manual removal of bubble algae always a chance of spreading the algae.

Untrue. Only larger bubble algae actually contain spores. Break up tiny ones all you want, it will not result in increased spread of algae.

 

[reefwiser]

I just never trust bubble algae. It is tough to get out of a tank once it is in the tank. I always go with the safe tried and true.

 

[Mastiffsrule]

Not 100% sure if size has to do with it, but another thread touched on this...

https://www.reef2reef.com/threads/bubble-algae-a-syringe-and-a-cheap-scope.566188/

Also, when I had bubble algae I got an emerald crab and it took care of it. Never saw it again. But it is not a guarantee they will eat it. I think the idea of covering it is interesting, like an aptasia

 

[Orm Embar]

I found fluconazole at 4x the Bryopsis dose worked very well (it took a while, though - up to a month for some bubbles!), but it eventually returned. I would probably not have any if I actually did minimal weekly maintenance like I should. >.>