Red Algae (Rhodophyta)

This group of red algae is called Rhodophyta, they consist of approx 6,000 species and most of them are marine seaweeds.

They get their red appearance due to the pigment call phycoerythin, which absorbs blue light and reflects back red light. Their coloration, will depend on how much of this pigment they reflect and can range from reddish yellow to bright red to greenish blue and brown.

Because blue light penetrates much deeper than our colors, these algae usually live at deeper depths and are well adapted to low lighting conditions.

They can be added to your saltwater aquarium by introducing live rocks.

The most common are from of Red Algae called coralline algae, which secrete a hard calcareous shell the way corals do.

They are also considered to be important in the formation of tropical reef.

They are beneficial to your saltwater aquarium, encrusting rocks and even spreading to fixtures and glass.

For more information on types of Algae's see below:

1. Chlorophyta or Green Algae
2. Rhodophyta or Red Algae
3. Phaeophyta group - Brown Algae
4. Diatoms
5. A group of bacteria called the Cyanobacteria - Blue-green Algae

For general information on Saltwater Aquarium Algae click here.

Recommended Algae Products by Saltwater Aquarium Guide

Text and Photo Source: Saltwater Aquarium Online Guide