Purple Bird Nest Coralline Algae

Macroalgae Farms

Purple Bird Nest Coralline Algae

$24.99

Key Features:
⭐ Stunning purple coralline algae — a dense twig-like bird's nest structure unlike any other algae in the hobby
• Rare Australian articulated coralline — calcified, rigid, and permanently structural in your display
• Adds natural purple coloration and architectural complexity that no soft macroalgae can replicate
• Thrives alongside corals — needs calcium, alkalinity, and magnesium just like your reef inhabitants

Size: 1-2" Coralline Branching Frag
In stock

This product will be available for sale in 2 weeks, but you can pre-order now to receive 10% discount!

Estimated delivery between June 16 and June 18.

Purple Bird Nest Coralline Algae

$24.99

$24.99

Choose option
Size: 1-2" Coralline Branching Frag
  • 1-2" Coralline Branching Frag
  • 2-4" Coralline Branching Cluster Frag

About this item

Purple Bird Nest Coralline Algae

Purple Bird Nest Coralline Algae (Amphiroa sp.) is a rare and structurally extraordinary Australian coralline algae that brings something genuinely different to the reef display. Its growth form is immediately distinctive — dense, multi-directional branching twigs of deep purple-magenta that interlock and layer into a tight, rounded nest-like structure. Under reef lighting, the rich purple tones deepen and the calcified branches catch the light with a subtle iridescent quality that no soft macroalgae can replicate.

Unlike fleshy macroalgae, Purple Bird Nest Coralline is a true calcified coralline algae — each branch is rigid and mineralized, growing slowly and permanently as a structural element in your aquascape. It does not go sexual, does not crash, and does not need to be harvested. Once established it simply grows, slowly and steadily, building into an ever more impressive and dense purple nest over time.

As a coralline algae it shares the same basic requirements as your corals — stable calcium, alkalinity, and magnesium — making it a natural companion piece in any reef system. Sourced from Australian waters and rarely seen in the hobby, this is a genuine collector's specimen that adds permanent color, structure, and complexity to any display.

Available Options

Purple Bird Nest Coralline — 1–2" Branching Frag

  • Single branching frag, approx. 1–2" with established purple coloration
  • Ideal for grow-out or adding structural color to a display over time
  • A rare entry point into one of the most unusual coralline algae in the hobby

Purple Bird Nest Coralline — 2–4" Branching Cluster Frag

  • Larger branching frag, approx. 2–4" with denser nest-like structure and multiple branching frags
  • More immediate visual impact — the full bird's nest form on display from day one
  • Best choice for display tanks where structural presence matters immediately

Care Information

💡 Lighting
Low to Moderate — does well in shaded reef zones		 🌊 Water Flow
Moderate — indirect and steady
📍 Placement
Rock-mounted — mid to lower reef zones		 ⚙️ Care Level
Moderate — stable reef parameters essential
🪨 Calcium
400–450 ppm — essential for calcification		 🧪 Magnesium
1250–1350 ppm — low Mg causes brittleness
📈 Growth Rate
Slow — permanent and non-invasive		 🏠 Reef Safe
100% — fully compatible with corals and fish

Special Considerations

Maintaining stable calcium, alkalinity, and magnesium is critical for Purple Bird Nest Coralline. Low magnesium in particular will cause the branches to become brittle and break apart — keep Mg between 1250–1350 ppm at all times. Acclimate slowly on arrival and avoid sudden swings in salinity or temperature. The dense branching structure can trap detritus — ensure adequate flow around the specimen to keep it clean. Keep away from aggressive urchins and large hermit crabs that may damage the delicate branch tips.

🔍 Aquarium Insights

Purple Bird Nest Coralline Algae is a standout addition to any reef system:

  • One of the only purple coralline algae available in the hobby — adds a color and structural element that nothing else can replicate
  • Permanent and non-invasive — grows slowly and never needs harvesting or managing
  • A rare Australian collector's specimen that adds architectural complexity and living purple color to your reef for years to come

Learn More

For detailed species information, compatibility, and care tips, visit our Species Library.

Livestock Disclaimer

Due to natural variation, the frag you receive may vary slightly in branching structure, coloration, and size. Photographs are representative examples.

Coloration may vary depending on lighting spectrum and tank conditions. Individual specimens may display differences in purple intensity from pink-purple to deep magenta.

Size and appearance are provided as general guidelines and may vary slightly from the specimen received.

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