Getting rid of Diatoms
 

(probably a common question...but forget the answer) :oops:
My tank is getting covered in brown algae. I think a piece of liverock also has aptasia on it. I've read about this before, but forget the solution...aside from reducing the time the light is on, and the amount of food being fed, is there anything else to do?
I thought one type of shrimp ate aptasia...forget which one though.
--even though this 72gallon tank is fowlr...do I need reef crustaceans? Currently I have a damsel and a cleaner shrimp in the tank.

Thanks

Michael.

Michael, is this a new tank? If so, diatoms are normal.They'll go away on their own. If it's an established tank, you'll need to look at your source water. Does it come from the tap or RO?
Aptaisia are consumed by peppermint shrimp.

Thanks for the reply.
The tank is 4-6 months old. I buy ozonized water from the grocery store. I guess I expected to get diatoms, but not in such quantity. I'll wait it out and see what happens...maybe do a few more water changes.

Michael

Michael, ozonized water doesn't mean it's filtered thru an RO or DI. Just means the bacteria have been hit by ozone. This could permit silica to remain in the water. Maybe check to see exactly what is done to this water. Maybe change suppliers. Also, the RO water from my grocery store is not nearly as "clean" as my homemade RO water.

Just one last question...I checked the label on the water I was using...it is "ozonized distilled water". Is that any better than just ozonized water?
Thanks...I have a feeling your reply will be to get a home made RO unit. Well...I knew this was an expensive hobby when I started, so I guess I shouldn't be suprised. :?

Michael, distilled is better. However, over the long haul, it will be cheaper to get your own system. I know, I carried jugs from the store for 6 months!!
Sounds like you have normal diatom growth; time should clear it up.