Description

Dragon’s Breath Macroalgae (Halymenia durvillei)

This is a popular yet fairly rare red macroalgae; owing to its attractive form and color, dragon’s breath is perhaps the most sought-after Halymenia for use in reef aquaria. It is especially valued as an ornamental macroalga due to its deep red hues and frilly, ribbon-like fronds. Dragon’s breath macroalgae is as suited to the customary planted refugium as it is to the main (display) tank. See below for more information.

DRAGON’S BREATH MACROALGAE SIZE AND CARE REQUIREMENTS

Purchase Size: 1″-2″ (ball diameter)

Max Size: approximately 4″ (diameter)

Water Parameters: 78-83° F, dKH 8-12, pH 7.8-8.4, sg 1.023-1.025

Color: Pink to purplish red

Reef-Safe: Yes

Fertilization: Generally, sufficient nutrients and minerals are present in the aquarium water to support this species. In certain cases, it may be advantageous to dose certain vital elements (iron, iodine, etc.).

DRAGON’S BREATH MACROALGAE SPECIES INFORMATION

Halymenia durvillei is distributed across the Indo-Pacific Ocean. It typically occurs over hard substrates in the lower intertidal-upper subtidal zones. It is most abundant in moderately turbulent waters at around 30-50 meters depth.

H. durvillei grows either free-floating or attached to rock. Attached individuals grow to heights of a foot or more. Growing at a moderate pace (and so preferring moderate-lower nutrient levels), it is best as a refugium plant for moderately stocked or meticulously maintained systems. The species tolerates dimly lit conditions (though it prefers bluish light). Harvested refugium material can be fed out as a nutritious supplemental food source for many herbivorous creatures (rabbitfish, tangs, sea urchins, etc.).

BENEFITS OF AQUACULTURED DRAGON’S BREATH MACROALGAE

Aquacultured dragon’s breath macroalgae provide a huge advantage over wild-caught 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 dragon’s breath macroalgae in a macroalgae-specific system to minimize the transfer of fish parasites and other unwanted hitchhikers.

100% ALIVE ON ARRIVAL (AOA) GUARANTEE FOR AQUACULTURED DRAGON’S BREATH MACROALGAE

We guarantee that all dragon’s breath 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.