Caring for your Chaeto

Chaetomorpha Algae removes both phosphates and nitrates from the water. To increase the amount of nutrients this algae exports, use moderate to high lighting and keep it in an area of high water flow. It should ideally be tumbled in an algae filter. This algae is sold by the bag and will arrive in a dense mat. Spaghetti algae, though not palatable to many herbivorous species, is popular in reef aquariums for its ability to remove nitrates, assist in buffering pH, uptake carbon dioxide producing oxygen, and assist in balancing trace elements. It also provides hiding spaces for small creatures. To increase the amount of nutrients this algae exports, keep in an area of high water flow.

Also, it is often overlooked that the chaeto also acts like a filter floss of sorts, and will trap small particles of detritus and unprocessed foods and such. Because of this, it is a good practice to “rinse” your chaetomorpha macro algae from time to time. At least rinse it well with each water change you do; Pull out up to 5 gallons of water (that is to be replaced in a water change) depending on how much chaeto you are rinsing , and save it in a 5 gallon bucket or similar container. Before you dump the old saltwater, use it to rinse out the chaeto first. You will be amazed at how ugly that bucket of water will get.

When you are done rinsing your chaeto, and have put it back in the refugium, decant the 5 gallon bucket for a few minutes before slowly pouring it out, and stop when there is about 2-3” of water left and look for brittle stars, hard stars and critters to be rescued before dumping out the last of the old dirty saltwater.

I hope this helps with folks who are having any trouble keeping their Chaeto thriving and productive.

-Greg