Description
Monkey Finger Ogo (Gracilaria salicornia)
Monkey finger ogo is a choice red seaweed. While it more or less resembles the red, green and mocha ogos (G. tikvahiae), its blades are much more cylindrical and stubby. It also has a much more bold appearance than most other, typically “graceful” Gracilaria species. Its strange form makes it a nice decorative piece in any planted refugium. Its knobby shape and “crunchy” texture can deter herbivory to some degree, so it can in many instances be used ornamentally in the main tank. See below for more information.
Size and Care Requirements:
- Purchase Size: 1″-2″ (ball diameter)
- Max Size: approximately 4″ (diameter)
- Water Parameters: 73-83° F, dKH 8-12, pH 7.8-8.4, sg 1.023-1.025
- Color: Greenish to brownish with (sometimes bright) golden orange hues.
- Reef-Safe: Yes
- Fertilization: Generally, there will be more than enough nutrients and minerals present in the aquarium water to support this species. It may in certain cases be advantageous to dose certain vital elements (iron, iodine, etc.).
Monkey Finger Ogo Species Information
Gracilaria salicornia occurs widely across the tropical Indian and Pacific Oceans. It is found mainly in very shallow waters (e.g. tidepools and reef flats). It does not seem to prefer powerful water currents and wave action. Only rarely does this seaweed occur in the subtidal zone. It also requires slightly more intense light than most other members of its genus.
Benefits of Aquacultured Monkey Finger Ogo
Aquacultured monkey finger ogo plants provide a huge advantage over wild-harvested specimens. For instance, if cultivated in captive conditions, they are better adapted to living in an aquarium. They are also less likely to harbor unwanted hitchhikers. Moreover, aquacultured specimens are better able to handle shipping stress. Most noteworthy, by purchasing captive-bred livestock you support the aquaculture of marine organisms and help to make our hobby more sustainable!
AlgaeBarn keeps monkey finger ogo in a macroalgae-specific system to minimize the transfer of fish parasites and other unwanted hitchhikers.
100% Alive on Arrival (AoA) Guarantee
We guarantee that all monkey finger ogo plants we sell will be Alive On Arrival and in good health. Should they arrive in any other state, we will either replace them free of charge (including shipping). We issue store credit if the total livestock loss is less than $40. For more information, please also visit our 100% Alive On Arrival Guarantee page.
