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Coralline Algae
Corallinales spp.
Also known as Crustose Coralline Algae, CCA, Purple Coralline
Plantae›Rhodophyta›Corallinophyceae›Corallinales›Corallinaceae
📍 Worldwide on tropical and temperate reefs
Calcified encrusting algae that paints live rock, glass, and equipment in shades of pink, purple, and white — the hallmark of a mature, healthy reef. Requires stable calcium (400–450 ppm) and alkalinity (8–9 dKH). Does not need dedicated lighting but benefits from reef-level light. Spreads naturally from live rock and purchased plugs.
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Quick Facts
- note
- cover back glass to slow growth on display panels
- role
- highly beneficial — reef maturity indicator
- calcium
- 400–450 ppm
- magnesium
- 1250–1350 ppm
- alkalinity
- 8–9 dKH
Water it likes
- ph
- 8.1–8.4
- hardness
- 8–12 dGH
- temperature
- 73–81°F (23–27°C)
Legality
No state or federal restrictions on record for this species.
Not legal advice, and possibly incomplete or out of date. Rules vary by state and locality and change over time — always confirm the current regulations with your state wildlife or agriculture agency before buying, keeping, or shipping this species.