Description
Dragon’s Tongue Macroalgae (Halymenia dilatata)
Dragon’s Tongue macroalgae is among the most popular Halymenia spp. for use in reef aquaria. It is highly valued by reef aquarists as an ornamental macroalga due to its bright red coloration and deeply furcated, flame-shaped fronds. While attractive in the main tank, it can be used in the refugium for steady nutrient export. See below for more information.
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 deep red
- 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.).
Dragon’s Tongue Macroalgae Species Information
Halymenia dilatata is distributed throughout the Gulf of Mexico, the Caribbean, and the Tropical Atlantic Ocean. It most commonly occurs in rocky subtidal environments (usually associated with reefs). It prefers areas of moderate to high water flow.
Halymenia dilatata can grow either free-floating or attached to rock. Attached individuals can grow to heights of over 1.5 feet. This beautiful seaweed grows slowly and thus requires harvesting less frequently than some other macroalgae. It thrives where there is good water quality and strong currents. The species tolerates lower light conditions; it therefore can flourish in shadier or deeper parts of the tank. It is extremely palatable and is indeed useful as a nutritious supplemental food source for many herbivorous fishes (tangs, rabbitfish, angelfish, etc.).
Benefits of Aquacultured Macroalgae
Aquacultured dragon’s tongue 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 tongue 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 dragon’s tongue 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.
