Random Coraline Algea Question

[Utahsaltnoob]

hello,

Random question but my tank is just starting to get coraline algea growth on the LR, which I’m happy about, but it is taking off on the shells of my snails and hermits like a rocket! I’m talking ones that came in the tank with nothing on them, it’s not a problem but I’m just interested in the “why” part of it growin so we’ll on shells.
All things marine aquarium fascinate me so I thought I’d ask.

Thank you,

 

[Cory]

Possibly the surface is phosphate free or phosphate full compared to other areas

 

[LilElroyJetson]

This is an interesting question. My guess is that it may be because of the friction of their shells against the coraline creates a transfer of small particles of coraline onto the shells and that it’s a favorable surface for the algae to grow, maybe someone more versed in marine biology will have a more informed answer for us.

And congrats on the coraline growth! So exciting in a new tank!