red algae

[sunrise3625]

I have some red algae that has slipped into the seahorse tank , it is on the seahorses back . Is there a safe treatment for this ? it isnt in the tank ,but has always had a little bit on her .

[Seamaiden39]

I understand that 'maracyn' should take it away in like three to four days. Gone completely. And the treatment is not harmful to your system or fish.

As far as it being on the horses, I wouldn't worry. They will get some on them from time to time. Just a 'by-product' of their slow nature. As with most fish that slough off their slime coats or outer layer, I believe seahorses may do the same. I have had seahorses with algae on them for a few weeks, then all of a sudden it's off them and gone! (like overnight).

So I think they do slough off their coating from time to time. I have also read some post where some folks will take a SOFT bristle toothbrush and gently clean their seahorses off. But I think that would be more stressful than them having algae on them! I've never done that.

HTH,
Jaime

[2pairs]

Mine use to get red algae on them when the tank was new. But these sweethearts love to interact, so after washing hands I gently rub it off with my finger. It can take a couple of times and don't be suprised when they start hitching on your finger.
Glenda

[crazyhorse]

you can use a soft tooth brush or a wet Q-tip
My horses loved getting cleaned off

[redwings1243]

Is Maracyn safe for all Inverts?

Paul

[crazyhorse]

There is no need to treat the hole tank for just a little Algea on a seahorse. You just need to remove it. I never recommend using chemicals to treat something that can be done in another way which is more safe for the animals

[Seamaiden39]

I wouldn't treat the whole tank either for a little algae. The only time I've ever tried the Maracyn, was once in a new tank when the stuff started to get crazy on me. There wasn't much in the tank other than some live rock and a few hermits. Took care of it quick though, and I went on to add the other inhabitants later as the tank matured. I haven't had any problems with it since.

If there is a concern on an established system with corals and such, well, I wouldn't use it in there.

The algae really doesn't hurt the horses and will come off eventually. Mine always did if they had it. Unless it gets so that it inpeads the breathing or something then I wouldn't worry about it.

Jaime

[Seahorsegirl32]

Originally Posted by sunrise3625

I have some red algae that has slipped into the seahorse tank , it is on the seahorses back . Is there a safe treatment for this ? it isnt in the tank ,but has always had a little bit on her .

Don't worry about the red algae. It's normal for seahorses to have algae growing on them from time to time. It will slough off.

I have 4 seahorses and one of my females has red algae along her back and on her elongated cerri. The seahorses skin does slough off just like our skin does. If you gently blow water on her using a turkey baster, the algae will come off.