hair algae during cycle

[Trigger Man]

It's hard to say, it depends on how long you cycle the tank from today and how much algae there is currently in the tank.. By shutting off the lights and covering the tank, as well as continuing to do the weekly water changes you should be alright. Basicly your tank cycling will now be complete when you no longer see any algae in the tank. Now it is down to the boring patience thing, but it will be well worth it. ( you can try removing as much algae as you can when you do your water changes, as well use RO water to speed the process if you are not already using it)