Family

Common name: Coralline Algae

Scientific name: Corallinaceae

Coralline algae, belonging to the family Corallinaceae, are calcareous algae found in marine environments worldwide. They are important for reef building, as they deposit limestone (calcium carbonate) in their cell walls, contributing to the structure of coral reefs. These algae come in various colors, predominantly pink or purple, and can be encrusting or branching. They are beneficial in reef aquariums, promoting stability and providing a natural appearance. Coralline algae compete with nuisance algae for space and nutrients, helping to keep the latter in check. They require stable conditions and adequate calcium levels to thrive.

  1. Red algae Amphiroa cryptarthrodia close-up undersea, Aegean Sea, Greece, Halkidiki
    Common name: Cryptic Branching Coralline Algae
    Scientific name: Amphiroa cryptarthrodia
  2. Common name: Lime Green Algae
    Scientific name: Amphiroa fragilissima
  3. Common name: Hydrolithon boergesenii
    Scientific name: Hydrolithon boergesenii
  4. Marine algae Slender-beaded coral weed (Jania rubens) undersea, Aegean Sea, Greece, Halkidiki
    Common name: Jania rubens
    Scientific name: Jania rubens
  5. Encrusting coralline algae (Lithophyllum incrustans) and orange-red boring sponge (Cliona carteri) undersea, Aegean Sea, Greece, Halkidiki
    Common name: An encrusting coralline alga
    Scientific name: Lithophyllum incrustans