Halimeda Plant (Halimeda)

The Halimeda Plant is a decorative and beneficial algae for saltwater tanks. Its unique shape and growth patterns make it visually appealing while serving as a nutrient extractor.

Halimeda algae should not be excessively pruned but do require regular trimming. With proper nutrition, they can double in size within 2-4 weeks, competing as a nutrient extractor. Because they use available calcium for growth, they can also indicate calcium and alkalinity levels. Healthy plants suggest good conditions for growing stony coral. However, they also pull these nutrients away from the coral, so dosing with calcium is recommended if kept with stony corals. In fish-only tanks, Halimeda can thrive without affecting coral growth.

Found worldwide in places like Hawaii, the Caribbean, and the Great Barrier Reef, Halimeda forms large natural patches, especially in the Great Barrier Reef.

Their interesting shape makes them a great natural decoration for fish-only aquariums and reef tanks. Most grazing fish, like tangs, avoid them due to their calcium content and noxious taste, making them safe additions. However, lettuce slugs may feed on them, as they consume chloroplasts to become photosynthetic themselves.