algae?

[mhaynes01]

i have a 15 gallon and its cycling btu there is some algae? i geuss on the top of the sand What is that is it nromal

 

[SquishyFish]

It can be...what color is it?

 

[mhaynes01]

its brownish, theres darker and lighter versions

 

[something_fishy]

algae

This is normal, it is usually an indicator that you are nearing the end of the cycle period(diatom algae) Its not actually algae but rather the skeletons of diatoms all linked up. It is a good thing because it precludes the start of the good "green" algae types. When it is gone, you are complete. You can keep cleaning the glass though, try not to disturb the subsrate though, let it run its course


Hope this helps

Chris

 

[mhaynes01]

thanks it does

 

[got bait?]

Be aware though, this diatom (brown) algae will probably be around for a while. Until the tank matures (six mos or so) you'll probably have smaller flare ups. There is a bacteria that will develope and will eventually out compete this nusence. Took my tank about 5 mos to be totally gone, and haven't seen ANY since. So glad too. Having plenty of snails will help you out as well.

 

[something_fishy]

Good point got bait. Also, try putting in a sort of macro algae or other "good" algae, hopefully it will outcompete for nutrients and win over. It is always a good idea to have some sort of alge in the tank to compete with the bad stuff.

 

[mhaynes01]

thank you but the algae is liek the top layer of sand and some has staring "peeling" off the sand its wierd

 

[MrWrasse]

Hmm sounds like cyanobacteria. Look at this link and tell me if it matches up. http://www.reefs.org/hhfaq/pages/picture_pages/faq_cyano.html

 

[MrWrasse]

Hmm sounds like cyanobacteria. Look at this link and tell me if it matches up. http://www.reefs.org/hhfaq/pages/picture_pages/faq_cyano.html

 

[got bait?]

Yup. sounds like Red algae to me. How much circulation do you have? this is usually caused by a dead spot is current flow.

 

[mhaynes01]

yeah kinda what kind i do for it

 

[got bait?]

Either redirect your current flow or add another PH.

 

[mhaynes01]

thanks