Stoffels Aegagrophila linnaei ( Chladophora )
Aegagrophila linnaei (also known as Aegagropila linnaei or more commonly Cladophora aegagropila) is a rare species of green algae that forms characteristic spherical "algae balls", also known as Marimo moss balls. It is not a true moss but a colony of algal filaments that slowly grows into a spherical shape due to water movement.
Form: Spherical mass of green algae, velvety in texture. In nature it can reach up to 20–30 cm in diameter, but in the aquarium it usually stays 3–10 cm.
Growth rate: Extremely slow – grows about 5 mm per year.
Color: Bright green when healthy, turning yellow or dark when conditions are poor.
Origin: Northern Europe (Iceland, Ireland), Japan, Siberia.
Natural filter: binds nitrates and phosphates to a small extent.
Shelter for shrimp and small fish.
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Temperature: 18–25 °C (ideally cool water, does not like warm aquariums >27 °C).
Lighting: Moderate to low. Very bright light > other algae may grow on it.
Water: Clean, with good circulation. No CO2 or fertilizer needed.
pH: 6.5–8.0.
Filtration: Nothing special is required, but a light stream helps to keep its spherical shape.
Maintenance:
If left standing in the same spot, it can get an ugly shape or rot at the bottom. Hand turning is recommended every 1–2 weeks.
Can be lightly washed in aquarium water if it collects dirt.
Compatibility: Safe for all fish and shrimp, shrimp often clean it of microalgae.
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