Common name: Red Algae
General information
Solieria robusta, commonly known as Red Algae, is a species of marine algae that is highly appreciated in the reefkeeping hobby for its vibrant color and unique texture. This species belongs to the family Solieriaceae and is known for its robust, bushy fronds that can add a splash of color and natural diversity to a reef aquarium.
Details
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.023 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 22 to 26 °C (72 to 79 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8 to 8.4
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Requires moderate flow & nutrients.
Taxonomy
- KingdomPlantsPlantae
- PhylumRed AlgaeRhodophyta
- ClassRed AlgaeFlorideophyceae
- OrderRed AlgaeGigartinales
- FamilyRed algaeSolieriaceae
- GenusRed AlgaeSolieria
- SpeciesRed AlgaeSolieria robusta Kylin, 1932 (Greville)
- SynonymsAgardhiella robusta Børgesen, 1932 (Greville)Dumontia robusta Greville, 1830Dumontia robusta wightii G.Martens, 1866 (J.Agardh)Rhabdonia robusta J.Agardh, 1851 (Greville)Rhabdonia robusta flagelliformis J.Agardh, 1876Rhabdonia robusta wightii J.Agardh, 1851Rhabdonia umbellata Zanardini, 1874Solieria australis Harvey, 1855Solieria robusta flagelliformis Kylin, 1932 (J.Agardh)Solieria robusta wightii Kylin, 1932 (J.Agardh)
Care
Red Algae like Solieria robusta require moderate to high lighting conditions to thrive in a home aquarium. They also prefer strong water movement to mimic their natural habitat, which helps to deliver nutrients and remove waste products. It's important to maintain stable water parameters, especially calcium and magnesium levels, which are crucial for their growth.
Symbiosis
While not hosting a wide range of symbiotic relationships like some corals or anemones, Solieria robusta can provide shelter and food for small invertebrates and microfauna. Its dense structure is ideal for copepods and amphipods, which in turn can serve as a natural food source for fish and other inhabitants of the aquarium.
Habitat
Solieria robusta is found in a variety of marine environments, often attached to rocks or other hard substrates. It is commonly found in shallow waters where sunlight can penetrate easily, but it can also grow at greater depths where light is more diffuse. This adaptability makes it a versatile addition to many types of saltwater aquariums.