Macro algae : Halymenia maculata

Halymenia maculata ("Frilly weed")

CARE : moderate, under normal reef conditions.

GROWTH : Moderate, once settled.

INVASIVE? : Not invasive due to long period of time required to form holfasts.

LIGHTING : Medium to high.

FLOW: Medium to strong.

VARIATION : Higher light results in more pronounced golden "mottling". Low flow results in a more ruffled frond with a tighter, more compact growth form.

HOLDFAST ATTACHMENT TIME : Long (months)

NUTRIENT UPTAKE : Moderate

SPECIES INFORMATION:

A widely distributed Indo-Pacific species, rarely seen in the hobby with temperate imitations often sold wrongly as this species.

Large flat fronds, split regularly into smaller growth tips with irregualar, serrated tips, often with a 'ruffled' appearance. Colour is quite variable dependant upon lighting, ranging from deep maroon-brown to yellow-copper.

The most striking characteristic of this species is the formation of bright, light gold coloured, luminescent blotches that present at various times in the algaes growth cycle. These are often also present on the tips of fronds. When present, these look absolutely stunning, glowing under blue light.

CUTTING INFORMATION:

You will receive an actively growing frond, with actively growing, branched growth tips. Cuttings will be around 4cm. 

Cuttings will be taken at a growth stage, when the mottled luminescent pits are just beginning to form. As such the cutting has the best chance of suitably differentiating holdfasts.

Cuttings will be suitably healed and cut ends checked before shipping to ensure no alginic acid leakage is occuring from the healed cut, as this is the major cause of death for Halymenia spp.