Dreaded grape algae...

[jjwfishgeek]

Is there a way to effectively control grape algae? The stuff grows like crazy and harvesting it by hand is difficult. I had a Naso Tang awhile back that ate it and controlled it quite well. Are there other fish that will eat this stuff?

[Jacque]

emerald crabs (mithraculus) keep mine under control

[jjwfishgeek]

Thanks Jacque. I have heard that Emerald Crabs will eat bubble algae, but they will also take care of grape algae??

[Jacque]

Oh I'm sorry I thought that they are the same thing:scratch2:

[nate]

i've heard that most tangs will eat it. i had i minor outbreak just over a month ago, bought a sailfin at the beginning of November, and i don't see any more of it in my tank. hope this helps you.

[jjwfishgeek]

thanks Nate. Unfortunately my Yellow Tang won't touch the stuff.....maybe have to spend some Xmas money and buy a new fish!!

[Myka]

Are you talking Grape Caulerpa or Bubble Algae? I think you mean Grape Caulerpa...it's just about as annoying as Bubble Algae, but easier to deal with! Many tangs will eat it...do a Google search. Many tangs won't touch it either.

[jjwfishgeek]

thanks Myka....yes, I am talking about grape caulerpa. Very annoying and fast growing.

[binghamd]

there are different types of "grape" calerpa -
one is small grape bubbles - my tangs love it
the other is more of a winecup shape and my tangs wont touch it
an urchin may be a solution they eat lots - however the urchins can be pushy when they get large.