A very beautiful calcified algae that’s spherical in shape, resembling a pinecone or christmas tree. It’s native to the reef flat, it grows in sandy substrate among sea grass beds and Halimeda forests. There are several distinct species, including brevifolius and longifolius that are similar in shape and characteristics. Its root-like structure is a large bulb with a series of rhizoids that anchor it to substrate, and sometimes rocks. Mature plants only reach a height of about 6″. Like most calcareous stem plants, it needs a deep sand bed of 4″ or more to grow in the aquarium. Calcium supplementation is needed. Not palatable to fish or invertebrates.
Scientific Name: Rhipocephalus phoenix
Common Name: Pinecone Algae
Origin: Atlantic, Caribbean
Depth Collected: 3-50 Feet
Maximum Height : 6″
Growth Rate: Moderate
Light: Moderate to High
Temperature: 76-86
Propagation: Fragmentation, Sporulation
Difficulty: Easy
Food Value: Not Palatable
Nutrient Uptake: Fair
Flow Rate: Moderate