Cleaning the tank.

[Veronica052208]

Hi. My tank is about 4 months old now. It has been relatively clean but recently I've started noticing an alga like substance growing on the back of the glass and I seen it in my overflow. The color of it is brown. What could it be? Also what's the best way to clean out that overflow?

 

[freppy16]

Well the best way to identify it for the people online would be if you posted pictures. But since you said your tank is four months old which means you are in the begginning stages of your tank it could be cyano which usually happens when you first start.
How long do you run your lights and what are your water parameters?

 

[AquaRick]

If it's brown, it's most likely diatoms. Very common in new tanks.

Does it look like the diatoms here?
ReefCleaners.org | Clean Up Crews and Macro Algae - Nuisance Algae ID Guide

Not sure what type of overflow you have. But even if you clean it; the diatoms still have to take their course and consume the silicates in your tank. Best bet is to wait it out and/or having your CUC take care of it.

 

[joy13]

If it is only on the back glass chances are it isn't diatoms maybe this can help identify it ReefCleaners.org | Clean Up Crews and Macro Algae - Nuisance Algae ID Guide

 

[AquaRick]

If it is only on the back glass chances are it isn't diatoms maybe this can help identify it ReefCleaners.org | Clean Up Crews and Macro Algae - Nuisance Algae ID Guide

Good call Joy. Forgot the OP mentioned it was on the back glass and not the sand.The algae ID guide should help