Dragons Breath

Halymenia sp.

Care Level	Moderate
Lighting	Moderate
Water Flow	Moderate
Placement	Display or refugium
Aggression	Beneficial — none
Coloration	Brilliant fiery red

Overview

Dragon’s Breath (Halymenia) is a display-worthy red macroalgae with a striking, fiery-red, flame-like appearance — unlike most macroalgae, it is grown as an ornamental feature rather than hidden in a refugium. It also exports nutrients and adds a bold splash of red to a reef.

Care & Placement

Grow in the display or a refugium under moderate light with moderate flow. Anchor it to rock. It shows its best color under good light and stable conditions. Herbivores generally leave it alone, though some tangs may nibble.

Feeding

Photosynthetic; consumes nitrate and phosphate. No feeding needed.

Propagation

Propagate by dividing a clump; secure a piece to rock to establish more.

Cautions

Can be slower and a bit more particular than Chaeto or Caulerpa — give it stable water and decent light to keep its color. A beautiful, functional ornamental macroalgae.