Common name: Red Algae

Rhodophyta, commonly known as red algae, is a diverse group of primarily marine algae that are recognized for their striking red coloration, which is due to the presence of the pigment phycoerythrin. This pigment allows them to photosynthesize efficiently in deeper waters by absorbing blue light. Red algae are an important part of marine ecosystems, contributing to reef building and providing habitat and food for marine life.

In the context of reef aquariums, red algae can be both beneficial and challenging. Some species, like Mesophyllum mesomorphum, are highly desirable for their ability to encrust surfaces and contribute to the natural look and stability of the tank. They can also help in maintaining calcium levels and are indicators of a healthy, mature aquarium. However, other types of red algae, such as certain species of Cyanobacteria, can become problematic if they grow excessively, often due to nutrient imbalances.

Red algae are also used in various industries, including food, where they are harvested for agar and carrageenan, substances used as gelling agents. Scientifically, Rhodophyta are fascinating due to their ancient lineage and complex life cycles, which often involve multiple stages and forms. This makes them a subject of interest for biologists studying the diversification of photosynthetic organisms.

For hobbyists, maintaining a balance of red algae in the aquarium involves monitoring nutrient levels and ensuring adequate water flow and lighting conditions. While beneficial species can enhance the aesthetic and ecological balance of a tank, careful management is needed to prevent less desirable forms from taking over.

1. Common name: Manila Grass

   Scientific name: Actinotrichia fragilis
2. 
   Common name: Cryptic Branching Coralline Algae

   Scientific name: Amphiroa cryptarthrodia
3. Common name: Lime Green Algae

   Scientific name: Amphiroa fragilissima
4. 
   Common name: Red asparagus algae

   Scientific name: Asparagopsis taxiformis
5. Common name: Botryocladia botryoides

   Scientific name: Botryocladia botryoides
6. Common name: Botryocladia pseudodichotoma

   Scientific name: Botryocladia pseudodichotoma
7. Common name: Botryocladia Skottsbergii

   Scientific name: Botryocladia skottsbergii
8. 
   Common name: Grape Caulerpa

   Scientific name: Botryocladia uvaria
9. 
   Common name: Red Algae

   Scientific name: Centroceras clavulatum
10. 
    Common name: Mermaid's Wine Glass

    Scientific name: Dichotomaria apiculata
11. 
    Common name: Scroll Algae

    Scientific name: Dichotomaria marginata
12. 
    Common name: Gelidium Seaweed

    Scientific name: Gelidium microdon
13. Common name: Dwarf Red Algae

    Scientific name: Gelidium pusillum
14. Common name: Red Seaweed

    Scientific name: Gelidium spinosum
15. 
    Common name: Gracilaria

    Scientific name: Gracilaria curtissiae
16. Common name: Warty gracilaria

    Scientific name: Gracilaria gracilis
17. 
    Common name: Red Algae

    Scientific name: Gracilaria parvispora
18. Common name: Ogo

    Scientific name: Gracilaria salicornia
19. Common name: Gracilaria tikvahiae

    Scientific name: Gracilaria tikvahiae
20. 
    Common name: Red Sea Lettuce

    Scientific name: Halymenia duchassaingii
21. 
    Common name: Dragon's Tongue Algae

    Scientific name: Halymenia floresii
22. 
    Common name: Dragon's Tongue Algae

    Scientific name: Halymenia floridana
23. Common name: Hydrolithon boergesenii

    Scientific name: Hydrolithon boergesenii
24. Common name: Dragon's Breath

    Scientific name: Hypnea musciformis
25. Common name: Hypnea Spinella

    Scientific name: Hypnea spinella
26. 
    Common name: Jania rubens

    Scientific name: Jania rubens
27. 
    Common name: An encrusting coralline alga

    Scientific name: Lithophyllum incrustans
28. 
    Common name: Coralline Algae

    Scientific name: Mesophyllum mesomorphum
29. 
    Common name: Red Ribbion Seaweed

    Scientific name: Nitophyllum punctatum
30. 
    Common name: Red Sea Lettuce

    Scientific name: Platoma gelatinosum
31. Common name: Polysiphonia elongata

    Scientific name: Polysiphonia elongata
32. 
    Common name: Red Algae

    Scientific name: Pyropia leucosticta
33. 
    Common name: Red Grape Algae

    Scientific name: Rhodymenia holmesii
34. 
    Common name: Dulse

    Scientific name: Rhodymenia pseudopalmata
35. Common name: Scinaia complanata

    Scientific name: Scinaia complanata
36. 
    Common name: Red Algae

    Scientific name: Solieria robusta
37. Common name: Red Mangrove

    Scientific name: Tricleocarpa cylindrica
38. 
    Common name: Blue Axil Chromis

    Scientific name: Wrangelia argus