Species of the brown algae Sargassum are among the most prolific of all brown algae in the Caribbean. This particular species features serrated, gold-brown leaves that form from a series of thick, main branches. Air bladders are common on this species and help to keep the plant upright. Mature plants often reach heights of 30″ or more in deeper environments, but most are found in shallow water. Anchored varieties are most suitable for the marine aquarium and have a very sturdy holdfast that is able to securely anchor itself in very turbulent environments. In the aquarium they require bright lighting and moderate to high flow rates for optimal growth. A large plant, that needs to be pruned often. Not known to be very palatable to fish.
Scientific Name: Sargassum platycarpum
Common Name: Sargassum
Origin: Gulf of Mexico, Caribbean, Atlantic
Depth Collected: 3 – 20 feet
Maximum Height : 30″
Growth Rate: Slow
Light: High
Temperature: 68-78
Propagation: Fragmentation, Sporulation
Difficulty: Advanced
Food Value: Not very palatable
Nutrient Uptake: Fair
Flow Rate: Moderate to High