Algae or mold?

[Zaphia1]

Has anyone had any issues with an algae or mold that only grows on the silicone?

I don't have pics, but the tank I is 20g and still fish less cycling with a few live plants. There is a dense layer of brown mold or algae growing on only the silicone of the DIY background. Is this normal or natural?

 

[flitabout]

It sounds like brown algae (diatoms) These are very common in new set ups especially those with plants. Good news is it is self limiting and when all of the silicates that the diatoms feed on are gone it will die and fall away.

 

[Zaphia1]

Sweet. That's what I had thought/heard. But it is nice to hear someone else say the same.