Common name: Green Felt Algae

Scientific name: Codium intertextum Collins & Hervey, 1917

General information

Codium intertextum, commonly known as Green Felt Algae or Codium Algae, is a species of marine green algae that is often found in reef aquariums. It is characterized by its velvety, dark green appearance and can add a natural and diverse element to the tank's ecosystem. This algae is not just decorative; it also plays a role in nutrient export, helping to remove excess nutrients from the water column.

Details

Salinity
S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
Temperature
22 to 26 °C (72 to 79 °F)
Acidity
pH 8 to 8.4
Care level
Easy Avoid high flow areas.

Taxonomy

  1. Kingdom
    Plants
    Plantae
  2. Phylum
    Green Algae
    Chlorophyta
  3. Class
    Green Algae
    Ulvophyceae
  4. Order
    Green Hair Algae
    Bryopsidales
  5. Family
    Green Finger Algae
    Codiaceae
  6. Genus
    Green Fleece Algae
    Codium
  7. Species
    Green Felt Algae
    Codium intertextum Collins & Hervey, 1917

Care

Codium Algae is relatively easy to maintain in a reef aquarium. It prefers moderate lighting and some water flow, but it is adaptable to a range of conditions. It can be attached to live rock or other surfaces within the aquarium where it will slowly spread. Regular pruning may be necessary to keep it from overgrowing other sessile organisms or infringing on their space.

Symbiosis

While Codium intertextum does not have the same type of symbiotic relationships as corals or anemones, it does provide a habitat for small invertebrates and can be a grazing site for herbivorous fish. It can also be involved in mutualistic relationships with certain marine organisms that benefit from its presence.

Habitat

In the wild, Codium intertextum is found in a variety of marine environments, from intertidal zones to coral reefs. It is a hardy species that can adapt to different levels of light and water movement, making it a suitable choice for many saltwater aquarium setups.