how do i get Cladophora sp. algae to grow in my tank on the wood ?

Question

because it looks nice .


and some of my plants have tiny holes in them is that leaf going to die ? or regenerate ? do i clip it ? or leave it alone?

Answer 1

If you mean Cladophora aegagropila (moss balls), this would attach to the gravel more than wood - if it attaches at all. Most other Cladophora species would be considered a nuisance algae, and some others (stream varieties) need pretty cool temperatures (<70o) to grow, so they really aren't suitable for tropical tanks - some of these are rather attractive and fernlike in their growth forms. There are some marine species too, but I'm guessing you're interested in freshwater, since you're using driftwood in the tank which would lower the pH.

Moss balls are fairly common for tank decoration, but these may just roll around with your current (or some help by your fish). You can pin it in place using some gravel, rock, or wood, but then it could be a problem for future cleaning in that spot. Just be aware that these can give you tank water a green tint.

For your other plants with holes in the leaves, these won't repair themselves. It won't harm the plant to have a few holes, but you might want to determine the cause - snails or a hungry fish. Otherwise, you might be in for more or larger holes. You can leave the plants alone for now, unless the leaves are really torn up - they'll still be providing food for the rest of the plant. If they're really bad, just clip them - more will grow to replace those you cut as long as you don't cut off the point from which they grow.