2026-04-20T16:03:33-07:00

Type: MACROALGAE
Price: 34.99 - 119.99 (2 variants)

Dragon's Tail Macroalgae

Dragon's Tail Macroalgae (Osmundaria spiralis, provisionally) is one of the most visually dramatic and structurally unique red macroalgae available in the hobby. Native to Australian waters, this rare specimen grows in a dense, bushy form with a defining characteristic that earns its name — stems that twist and spiral as they grow, each one edged with bold, heavily serrated margins that run the full length of every branch. The combination of that spiraling form and razor-sharp toothed edges creates a living texture that is genuinely unlike anything else you can place in a reef or macroalgae display.

Under reef lighting, the deep crimson red coloration intensifies and the serrated edges catch light differently from the blade surface, adding a subtle but constant interplay of tone and shadow throughout the colony. In moderate flow the spiraling stems sway and turn gently, creating movement that reinforces the dragon tail illusion with every pulse of water.

Sourced from Australian waters and rarely encountered in the hobby, Dragon's Tail is a true collector's macroalgae — a specimen that draws immediate attention and holds it, while quietly exporting nutrients and providing exceptional habitat for copepods throughout its complex branching structure.

Available Options

Starter Plant

Younger specimen with established spiraling stem structure and full crimson coloration

Ideal for grow-out or adding to a display with room to develop into a full colony

A rare opportunity to acquire this Australian species at an accessible entry size

Mature Colony

Fully developed specimen with dense spiraling branch structure on full display

Maximum visual impact — the full Dragon's Tail form from day one

Ready to place directly into your system as an immediate centerpiece

Care Information

💡 Lighting
Moderate — full spectrum recommended

🌊 Water Flow
Low to Moderate, gentle and indirect

📍 Placement
Rock-mounted — mid to lower display zones

⚙️ Care Level
Moderate — stable parameters recommended

📈 Growth Rate
Moderate — controlled and non-invasive

🧪 Nutrient Export
Moderate nitrate and phosphate uptake

Special Considerations

Dragon's Tail performs best in stable, established systems with consistent water parameters and gentle indirect flow. The spiraling branch structure can trap detritus in low flow areas — ensure adequate gentle circulation around the specimen. Keep away from aggressive herbivores including urchins and large tangs that will graze on the blades. Supplement with iron and iodine as part of a regular micronutrient dosing schedule to maintain rich crimson coloration. Handle gently during placement to avoid breaking the delicate spiraling branch tips.

🔍 Aquarium Insights

Dragon's Tail is a standout addition to any reef or macro display:

The spiraling stems and serrated blade edges create a structural complexity and visual drama that no other macroalgae can replicate

An exceptional copepod habitat — the spiraling branch structure provides unmatched surface area and shelter for beneficial microfauna

A rare Australian collector's specimen — functional, spectacular, and genuinely impossible to source outside specialist collections

Learn More

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

Livestock Disclaimer
Due to natural variation, the specimen you receive may vary slightly in branch structure, coloration, and size. Photographs are representative examples.

Individual specimens may display differences depending on lighting, flow, and tank conditions.

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