Coelothrix sp. — Coelothrix Spark Algae
Where the reef grows neon.
What You Get
Coelothrix Spark Algae is a vividly colored, turf-style red macroalga known for its electric sheen and compact, tufted growth. Depending on lighting and collection depth, its base color may appear reddish brown, pale purple, or olive green. Under high or aquarium lighting, it frequently flashes iridescent blues and greens that look almost electrified.
This species grows as dense, low-profile mats on hard bottom, rubble, or in sandy seagrass beds. Texture varies from fine and wispy to thicker, fuzzier tufts.
Why It Is Algaesome
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Electric iridescence: Under reef lighting, tiny filaments shimmer with shifting blues, greens, and metallic highlights.
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Textured macroscapes: Forms compact, tufted mats that add depth and visual contrast to rockwork and sand flats.
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Low grazing pressure: Not known to be palatable to most herbivorous fish or invertebrates.
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Adaptable habitat: Naturally occurs on hard substrate and among seagrass beds in shallow Caribbean waters.
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Placement matters: Like many turf algae, it may spread quickly in bright, nutrient-rich reef tanks—avoid placing directly against prized corals or macros unless intentional.
Sizing & Availability
Each portion is a single Coelothrix colony, typically 3 to 4 inches in diameter, though shape, density, and color vary depending on growing conditions and collection depth. In aquariums, colonies often remain compact but may gradually expand across rock surfaces over time.
Heads up! Coelothrix grows tightly along natural reef rock, which we’re not allowed to harvest. So when we collect it, it usually comes up with a little padding (a bit of sediment, rubble, sponge, or other algae). We give each portion a careful cleanup before shipping, but expect a few natural reef companions. Availability is dependent on tides, water clarity, and seasonal growth patterns in shallow coastal habitats.
Traits
Color Reddish brown to purple with iridescent blues & greens
Ease Easy
Classification Red Algae
Nutrient Uptake Good
Availability Occasional (Early Summer and Fall)
Use Display
Lighting Moderate-High
Flow Moderate
A Note from the Collectors:
Every macroalga we offer is hand collected, acclimated, and observed by our team before shipping. While we carefully try to remove other algae, sponges, and tiny hitchhikers, it is possible that a few goodies from the reef may tag along. It is a natural part of receiving genuine wild collected specimens.
Many species may arrive paler or whitish in color. This is completely normal. Macroalgae shift their pigments inward during transport to protect from light and stress; color returns within a few days under good aquarium lighting and flow.
We ship via 2 Day service on Mondays and Tuesdays only to ensure specimens arrive healthy. You will receive a notification with tracking information as soon as your order ships.
