Sargassum hystrix

Species of the brown algae Sargassum are among the most prolific of all brown algae in the Caribbean. These include both the anchored and free floating varieties. As a group, they are highly variable in shape, size and distribution and can survive in much cooler water than other tropical macro algae. The anchored varieties are of the most interest to the hobbyists, as the free floating patches such as  fluitans are not easily kept. Species of Sargassum hystrix feature large, dark brown leaves with a distinctive white mid rib. It grows in both shallow water and deeper habitats to  about 45 feet. It grows attached to rocks or other hard surfaces by a single holdfast. Most anchored varieties have a very sturdy, thick upright, that is able to securely anchor itself in very turbulent environments. In the aquarium they require bright lighting and moderate to high flow rates for optimal growth.

Scientific Name: Sargassum hystrix 

Common Name: Sargassum

Origin: Gulf of Mexico, Caribbean, Atlantic

Depth Collected: 3 - 45 feet

Maximum Height : 24"

Growth Rate: Slow

Light: High

Temperature: 68-78

Propagation: Fragmentation, Sporulation

Difficulty: Advanced

Food Value: Not very palatable

Nutrient Uptake: Fair

Flow Rate: Moderate to High

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