Information on Red Pond Algae
Red algae is rare in freshwater. Belonging to the group Rhodophyta, the genus Batrachospermum is the best example of this filamentous variety of algae. Despite its name, red algae are not always red. It often appears purple, grey, green and black.
Forms
Freshwater red algae take three forms: Beard form has long skinny tendrils, brush form is similar to beard with shorter tendrils and the third, unnamed, is a short plant with dark spots.
Features
The furry leaves of red algae attach easily to all surrounding surfaces, making it hard to control and eliminate in ponds and aquariums. This enables red alga to thrive in fast moving water.
Reproduction
The female sex organ, the carpogonia, meets the male sex cells, antheridia, by happenstance in the water. Once untied, the cells cling to the female, grow and are released into the water.
Natural Predators
The only known fish to eat red algae is the Siamese algae eater. Freshwater glass shrimp will also feast on red algae, but do so nocturnally.
Elimination
If red algal blooms take over a pond, it can be eliminated with the introduction of copper. But use copper with caution; it kills other plants too.
Tags: Information Pond, Information Pond Algae, Pond Algae