This ancient member of the plant kingdom dates back several million years. Their sizes have been found to range from cellular to very large plants that can cover over 100 feet in length.

Algae can continue to survive many years because there are no root systems, flowers to bloom, or stems to ground it.

Benefits of Red Marine Algae

Red algae have been found to be a delicacy with the Chinese, which dates back to 600 B.C. Very unique to plants, it is a complete protein and a carbohydrate. It also contains a great amount of Omega 3 and Omega 6. You can find it loaded with vitamins and minerals

Not only has this been found as a nutritional delicacy for many, but it is also has detoxifying agents, which have been found to boost the immune system and cure certain diseases of your fish.

Disadvantages of Marine Algae

There are so many benefits to algae, how can it have any disadvantages. The disadvantages occur once you become a fish tank owner and these organisms have taken over your tank; killing your tanks beauty and smothering certain organisms in it.
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There are many substances in your tank to lead to an overgrowth of algae, which includes, carbon dioxide, disbanded organic matter, and nitrates to name a few. An over abundance of algae in your tank can give it the appearance of it being dirty because you will start seeing green slime on the inside walls of the aquarium.

There are several things that can get rid of the abundance of algae. These factors have to control the conditions that cause these growths in the beginning. If you don’t do this, you will always see a large amount of algae.

One of easiest ways to eliminate the excess algae would be to supply your tank with a few algae eaters. This way there is no need of messing with the natural chemistry of your tank by eliminating or reducing certain nutrients.

Some of these algae eaters include angelfish, sea urchins, hermit crabs, tangs and certain types of snails to name a few. These species will help give your tank a cleaner appearance as they control the production of algae growing in your tank. Depending on the size of your tank is how you determine what species you will utilize for this task.

You may also want to invest in additional filtration as this may help to reduce the amount of marine algae in your aquarium as well.