Coralline Algae Care Guide
Lithothamnion sp. · Saltwater algae
What Coralline Algae look like
Encrusting calcareous algae in vivid pink, purple, magenta, and red hues. Forms hard, calcium carbonate crusts on live rock, glass, and equipment. Some species are branching.
Behavior & temperament
Desirable and beneficial algae in reef tanks. Indicates stable, mature water chemistry. Competes with nuisance algae for surface area. Requires calcium, alkalinity, and magnesium to calcify.
Diet & feeding
Photosynthetic autotroph requiring calcium carbonate for skeletal growth.
Behind the name
From Latin 'corallinus' (coral-like) and 'linea' (line), referring to its encrusting growth pattern.
Plan your tank
Check the numbers before you buy: tank volume, salinity, salt mix, water changes, and your ongoing care routine.
Keeping Coralline Algae?
AquaLens identifies your fish and plants from a photo, tracks water chemistry, and flags health issues early — free on iOS and Android.
