Acclimation & Placement
Acclimating macroalgae to a saltwater tank is a straightforward process, but it’s crucial to do it carefully to minimize stress and ensure the algae thrive in their new environment. We recommend NOT using coral dips as these can be quite harsh on delicate algae varieties. Here’s our step-by-step guide:
1. Prepare Your Tank
Before adding macroalgae, ensure your tank has stable water parameters:
• Salinity: 1.023–1.026 SG
• Temperature: 72–78°F (22–26°C)
• pH: 8.1–8.4
• Nitrate and phosphate: Low but measurable for nutrient absorption.
• Lighting: Ensure adequate lighting, as macroalgae require light for photosynthesis.
• Flow: Provide moderate water flow, as it helps prevent detritus buildup and promotes nutrient uptake.
2. Temperature Acclimate the Macroalgae
1. Place the sealed bag containing the macroalgae in your tank to equalize temperature. Let it float for 15–20 minutes.
3. Drip Acclimation:
1. Place the macroalgae in a clean container or bucket.
2. Use an airline tube with a drip valve to siphon water from the tank into the container.
3. Adjust the drip rate to 1–2 drops per second.
4. Allow the acclimation process to continue for 30 minutes.
DO NOT USE CORAL DIPS ON MACRO ALGAE.
4. Saltwater Rinse
Prepare a Clean Saltwater Rinse
• Use freshly mixed saltwater or water directly from your tank.
• Match the salinity to your tank’s parameters.
Inspect the Macroalgae
• Examine the macroalgae for visible pests or debris.
• Remove large debris manually using your fingers or tweezers.
Submerge and Rinse
• Place the macroalgae in a container of the prepared saltwater.
• Swirl the macroalgae gently in the water to loosen debris, detritus, and any small hitchhikers.
• For any stubborn debris, lightly rub the algae with your fingers or use a soft brush.
Replace the Rinse Water if Needed
• If the rinse water becomes cloudy or dirty, discard it and replace it with clean saltwater.
• Repeat the rinsing process until the water remains clear.
5. Freshwater Dip (Optional but Recommended)
Prepare the Freshwater
• Only use RO/DI freshwater.
• Match the temperature of the freshwater to your tank water to minimize temperature shock.
Submerge the Macroalgae
• Place the macroalgae into the prepared freshwater.
• Gently swirl the algae in the water to help dislodge pests and debris.
Dip Duration
• Keep the macroalgae submerged for 30 seconds to 2 minutes, depending on the species and its sensitivity:
• Hardy macroalgae (e.g., Chaetomorpha, Gracilaria): 1–2 minutes.
• Delicate macroalgae (e.g., Caulerpa, Dragon’s Tongue): 30–60 seconds.
Rinse with Saltwater
• After the dip, immediately rinse the macroalgae in clean, tank-safe saltwater to remove any residual freshwater.
• This step also helps prevent osmotic shock.
Observe and Inspect
• Inspect the macroalgae again for any remaining pests or damage.
• If the algae appear slimy, discolored, or limp, they may have been stressed—monitor them closely after placing them in your tank.
Final Tips
• Use freshwater dipping only as needed, as it can stress macroalgae if done too often.
• If you’re unsure about a specific species, try the dip on a small piece first to test its tolerance.
6. Placement in the Tank
• Anchor the macroalgae: Use rocks, sand, fishing line or clips to secure the algae, depending on the species. We prefer to use clear fishing line to attach the macro algae to rocks and generally recommend against using glue. If using for a refugium varieties like Chaetomorpha can be left free-floating.
• Avoid shading: Place the macroalgae in an area with adequate light exposure.
7. Monitor and Adjust
• Watch for changes: Monitor the macroalgae for signs of stress (e.g., discoloration, melting) and adjust tank conditions as needed.
• Prune regularly: Trim overgrown or unhealthy sections to encourage new growth and prevent the algae from overtaking the tank.
8. Add Beneficial Organisms (Optional)
Introduce snails, crabs, or other algae grazers to keep the macroalgae clean and free of detritus.