Common name: Chaeto

General information

Chaetomorpha aerea, commonly known as Chaeto or Spaghetti Algae, is a green macroalgae that is highly valued in the reefkeeping hobby for its nutrient export capabilities. It is a fast-growing, filamentous algae that forms loose, tangled masses, resembling a ball of green spaghetti. Chaeto is non-invasive and does not attach to rocks or substrate, making it easy to remove and harvest.

Care

Chaeto is relatively easy to cultivate in a dedicated refugium or algae reactor, where it can grow under moderate to high lighting conditions. It prefers strong water flow to prevent detritus accumulation and to ensure even exposure to light. Regular harvesting is necessary to maintain its growth and nutrient uptake efficiency. Chaeto can absorb excess nitrates and phosphates from the water, helping to maintain water quality and clarity.

Symbiosis

While Chaetomorpha aerea does not have any direct symbiotic relationships with specific marine organisms in the aquarium setting, it provides indirect benefits to the tank inhabitants. By absorbing excess nutrients, it helps prevent nuisance algae growth and creates a healthier environment for fish and corals. Additionally, it can serve as a habitat for beneficial microfauna such as copepods and amphipods, which are a natural food source for many reef fish.

Habitat

In the wild, Chaetomorpha aerea is commonly found in shallow waters, often in brackish environments such as estuaries and coastal lagoons. It can also be found in marine reef flats and back reef areas, where it grows attached to substrates or as free-floating clumps.