Algae problems

[fishytime]

how old is the tank?

[reefwars]

Originally Posted by fishytime

how old is the tank?

+1 new tanks when theres even the slightest amount of phosphate are going to see algae blooms id say just about most peoples algae problems come from phosphates, like mentioned above since there is algae in your tank your only getting a partial reading as the algae is using up some of the excess nutrients.new tanks need time to mature before being able to handle the burden of constant feedings and powerfull lights.its a balance game.


feed very little its the thing most people do wrong to begin with then wonder why theres algae, cut out the source of food is the best means of removal, so feed less have your lights on a timer keep bulbs under 10mths of age, watch your nitrates and phosphates very carefully and do whats necessary to keep them at zero.


what are you feeding and how do you feed it?


consider running a phosphate reactor for gfo it really does work wonders and are very inexpensive.


water changes for nitrates coupled by low feeding.


rinse all frozen food and then blotch with a clean cloth to get rid of the juices most are very high in phosphate.

lots of flow in your tank to stop food from finding places to hide and rot

CUC.....they are a must


dont bother with chemicals if you dont find the source it will come back with a vengance anyways.




cheers

[chris88]

lights do not matter when it comes to algae growth. let me finish! If there are no extra nutrients in the water it wont matter what type of lights or how old they are, algae can't grow without nitrates and phosphates. if you have brand new lights of the proper spectrum and still have to much extra nutrients then you will grow algae regardless. it's basic biology. if you do not get rid of your excess nutrents then you will always have algae issues.