Blue Hypnea (Hypnea pannosa) is a highly sought-after ornamental macroalgae known for its iridescent blue coloration, dense structure, and unique appearance in saltwater aquariums. Although visually similar to Ochtodes species from the Caribbean, Blue Hypnea originates from Micronesia and exhibits a subtly different growth form and texture.
This macroalgae grows in thick, matted clumps that loosely attach to coarse rock or substrate. It is not a fast-growing species, which makes it easy to manage and prevents it from becoming invasive. Under moderate to high full-spectrum lighting, Blue Hypnea displays its most intense blue and teal iridescence—making it one of the most visually striking macroalgae available.
Beyond its ornamental appeal, Blue Hypnea provides functional benefits in reef aquariums. As it grows, it absorbs nitrates and phosphates, helping maintain stable water quality and reducing unwanted nuisance algae. It also serves as a nutritious natural food source, as many herbivorous fish readily consume this algae.
Blue Hypnea is ideal for refugiums, display tanks, and aquarists seeking a unique macroalgae species that enhances both beauty and functionality.
Lighting:
Moderate to high; full-spectrum lighting enhances iridescent coloration
Flow:
Moderate flow preferred; prevents detritus buildup and supports healthy structure
Nutrients:
Requires some available nitrate and phosphate for sustained growth
Growth Rate:
Slow to moderate; naturally compact and easy to manage
Placement:
Refugium, sump, or display tank (rockwork or coarse substrate)
• Iridescent blue ornamental macroalgae
• Absorbs nitrates and phosphates
• Helps control nuisance algae
• Provides natural food for herbivorous fish
• Non-invasive and easy to contain
• Safe for all reef tank inhabitants
• Refugiums
• Macroalgae display tanks
• Mixed reef aquariums
• Hobbyists seeking unique blue macroalgae
• Systems needing natural nutrient export
Shipping: Overnight shipping recommended due to sensitivity
Blue Hypnea (Hypnea pannosa) is a highly sought-after ornamental macroalgae known for its iridescent blue coloration, dense structure, and unique appearance in saltwater aquariums. Although visually similar to Ochtodes species from the Caribbean, Blue Hypnea originates from Micronesia and exhibits a subtly different growth form and texture.
This macroalgae grows in thick, matted clumps that loosely attach to coarse rock or substrate. It is not a fast-growing species, which makes it easy to manage and prevents it from becoming invasive. Under moderate to high full-spectrum lighting, Blue Hypnea displays its most intense blue and teal iridescence—making it one of the most visually striking macroalgae available.
Beyond its ornamental appeal, Blue Hypnea provides functional benefits in reef aquariums. As it grows, it absorbs nitrates and phosphates, helping maintain stable water quality and reducing unwanted nuisance algae. It also serves as a nutritious natural food source, as many herbivorous fish readily consume this algae.
Blue Hypnea is ideal for refugiums, display tanks, and aquarists seeking a unique macroalgae species that enhances both beauty and functionality.
Lighting:
Moderate to high; full-spectrum lighting enhances iridescent coloration
Flow:
Moderate flow preferred; prevents detritus buildup and supports healthy structure
Nutrients:
Requires some available nitrate and phosphate for sustained growth
Growth Rate:
Slow to moderate; naturally compact and easy to manage
Placement:
Refugium, sump, or display tank (rockwork or coarse substrate)
• Iridescent blue ornamental macroalgae
• Absorbs nitrates and phosphates
• Helps control nuisance algae
• Provides natural food for herbivorous fish
• Non-invasive and easy to contain
• Safe for all reef tank inhabitants
• Refugiums
• Macroalgae display tanks
• Mixed reef aquariums
• Hobbyists seeking unique blue macroalgae
• Systems needing natural nutrient export
Shipping: Overnight shipping recommended due to sensitivity
