Hitch Hikers

[swampfox25]

Got some cool hitch hikers. They are polpos and quite a few. My question is other than Strontium, Iodide and Calcium do I need anything else to make it spread? The guy at the store said he would give me magnesium should i use that?

[mogurnda]

Depending on the type of polyp, they may not need anything. Most will be perfectly happy with good light, regular water changes and (for some) the occasional feeding.

As far as Ca and Mg, what are your levels now? Dosing without measuring is one of the best ways to get yourself into trouble.

What do the polyps look like?

[swampfox25]

They are brownish with green in the middle Not all are open but many are. Is there anything that makes them open or is it light related?

[RothChyld]

I believe you are referring to green-brown seamats. I have a cluster of those. They are extremely hardy. Mine have actually suffered through a cucumber expelling its toxins as well as my protein skimmer overflowing back into my tank. (I won't go into those stories as I am clearly not proud of them). :shake:

Bright light, iodine, and a decent current to carry it food or supplement with brine or cyclopeze if you prefer. They will grow slowly either way as they are quite hardy.

RothChyld

[Orion]

Don't add anything into your aquarium without testing and see if it is needed. The problem with trace elements in aquarium is more likely too much, can be very toxic to animals, rather then too little. Certainly haveing too little is much better than haveing too much of various trace elements.
I do not add anything to my aquarium except Ca and Alkalinty and water change.