Diatoms in an established aquarium.

[calfishguy]

I've had my 55 gallon tank for almost 4 years now and have never had any problems before. There are diatoms (I think) on many of my fake plants and some on the glass. I did a really good cleaning and got rid of all of them two weeks ago, but now they are back. Not nearly as bad as before but still noticeable. I have been slacking on water changes lately and was wondering if that is what is causing this. I usually do a 50% water change every week, but have been very busy lately and it has been more like every 2-3 weeks. Lights are on 8 hours a day and I don't over feed.

Ammonia 0
Nitrites 0
Ph 8
Nitrates below 30.

Thanks in advance.

 

[Pamiam]

Here is a good article if you believe you have diatoms, I hope this will help

Brown Algae, Diatoms In Freshwater Tanks