Algal growth questions
 

I have recently had a growth of a burgundy/red type of "algae" especially over my minimal substrate. It seems to gel my substrate together and won't vaccuum up . I did notice some on my sponge but put it in more direct flow which seemed to help. What is this stuff? Is it due to poor current/flow? Any help is appreciated.

sounds like cyanobacteria, due to either poor water quality, too low of flow and/or old lighting.

^ Yep...most likely from poor water quality.

Tank is 5 months old with T5 lights, all water parameters have always been excellent (K,Mg,NH4,NO2,pH,KH,Ca) so I'm assuming flow problem. Thanks. I have checked my flow rate and it is adequate for the 90 gallon tank, maybe just have my 4 powerheads improperly aligned. Any hints. Do most people have them aimed toward the overflow (as I do), 3 low and 1 high beside the skimmer opposite to the incoming water? Sorry if unclear, just don't know how most are set up.