bubble algae info-

[mr_X]

i was on another forum, and the bubble algae topic came up. i gave my usual "siphon while plucking" advice. then someone posted this:

I spoke with a biologist at API, he put a valonia bubble under a stereo microscope, popped it, and found NO living cells/spores inside a healthy valonia bubble.
What does that mean? that in that case, that valonia bubble WOULD NOT spread spores in the tank. That is an unofficial test, just something he did to "see"

One thing I have tested was nitrates...in a cup of tank water, i had 0 nitrates.
I popped a 1/2" valonia bubble into the same cup, and measured 20ppm nitrates....
try it.. you'll be amazed... they are tiny nitrate sponges. Popping them will not spread IMO, but it will raise your nitrates if you go popping crazy...

IMO... as always...

 

[camaroracer214]

well if you really think about it, it makes sense that popping a valonia sp. bubble will release nitrates. the algae takes up nitrates and phosphates and uses them to grow...sort of like caulerpa or chaetomorpha. when you pop it, that bubble no longer has the ability to store that nitrate/phosphate. it's almost like a decaying leaf. trees sequester carbon dioxide when they are living, but when it dies (or a leaf that falls to the ground) and begins to decay, it releases carbon dioxide.

 

[mr_X]

but the important info here is the lack of spores :wink:

 

[Mthompson]

If anyone wants to send some bubble algae to me, I would gladly look at some and take some pics at different magnifications (I have access to a $100k microscope/camera deal). Plus I have to practice my picture taking for my Fish Health Protection class.

Oh, as a side note....I also need some sick fish to do some case studies for this class. This involves me assessing the specimen(s), looking for parasites, viruses, and bacteria on(in) fins, gills, skin, viscera, organs, etc. I have to take pictures and document to whole process, and any findings and write a report. If you have some sick fish that are not going to make it, or just want to really find out what's wrong with them (they won't survive the procedures - but you might be able to protect your other fish)....let me know. I would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

 

[Mthompson]

P.S. - Also, if you see any good sick fish at you LFS, ask them if you can have them as well.