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algae bloom

R

razorfingerz

i seem to have an algae bloom in my tank, like greenish brown algae? maybe lights? i tested for phosphate and it is little to none.. any help guys?
 
D

DaveK

Algae control is all about controlling nitrates and phosphates. Don't think that because your test kits read 0 or very low values, that you do not have a problem. Nitrates and phosphates can be bound up in live rock, the sand bed, and even in the algae you are trying to get rid of.

Things that add nitrates and phosphates to the system are feeding the livestock, water if it's not RO/DI, low grade carbon, some additives, and a host of other items.

Things that renove nitrates and phosphates are some types of water changes using RO/DO water as the source, special nitrite or phosphate removing filter media, anaerobic bacteria, and algae growth, yes, even the unwanted algae.

"all you need to do" is have the amount going in less that the amount being exported. This is a lot easier said the done, but if you keep up the process, in time you will prevail, and get rid of the algae.

There are also several things that also limit algae growth. Light is a factor. So is the color of light. You can cut the light back, but don't cut it back too much if you have livestock, like corals, that require it. Also, if it's been over a year since you replace your light bulbs, this is a good time to do so. Unwanted algae seem to bloom when a bulb starts to get old, and the color shifts.

There are chemical algae control products available, but I do not recommend using them, They can work, but unless you correct the actual causes, all your do is swap one type of unwanted algae for another one.

Lastly, if this is a new tank setup, this may just be part of the long term cycle the tank goes through. Don't panic.
 
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NJ_ychung1

my experience as a novice is that it is a normal cycle. i had a huge problem and it continued for about 6 weeks or so maybe more. then it cleared up. of course it happened as the tank was maturing.

how about doing some extra water change and physically removing the cyano slimy green algae by hand
 
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