Description
Blue Hypnea (Hypnea pannosa)
Technically a rhodophyte (red algae), blue hypnea macroalgae is highly unusual in its iridescent, royal blue coloration (it dries reddish brown). This species is best suited to a refugium where moderate, rather than rapid, growth is preferred. Most often, it is used (on account of its striking pigmentation) as an ornamental. It has a dense, spiky, highly branched growth form. As it proliferates, it bunches to form thick, loosely attached mats.
Moderate-high full spectrum lighting will obtain the best coloration and growth rate for this highly desirable seaweed. See below for more information.
Size and Care Requirements
- Purchase Size: (average) 5 gram portion
- Max Size: Unknown
- Water Parameters: 73-83° F, dKH 8-12, pH 7.8-8.4, sg 1.023-1.025
- Color: Blue with iridescence
- 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.).
Blue Hypnea Species Information
Hypnea pannosa occurs widely across the tropical and subtropical Pacific and Indian Oceans from Australia and Micronesia to Singapore. It is found mainly over hard bottoms in brightly illuminated intertidal or shallow subtidal zones.
Benefits of Aquacultured Blue Hypnea Macroalgae
Aquacultured blue hypnea macroalgae provide a huge advantage over wild-harvested specimens. For instance, if cultivated under captive conditions, they are better adapted to living in an aquarium. They are also much less likely to harbor unwanted hitchhikers. Better yet, aquacultured specimens are better able to handle shipping stress. By purchasing captive-bred livestock you support the aquaculture of marine organisms and help to make our hobby more sustainable!
AlgaeBarn keeps blue hypnea macroalgae 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 blue hypnea macroalgae 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.
