Question on Blacking Out Tank w/Pressurized CO2

[LindaC]

I have BGA in my 29 gallon planted tank, wasn't sure at first but the smell made me very suspicious and then I could see little pieces here and there, which confirmed. I've been doing water changes and stopped adding ferts for the time being. I believe it happened due to my increase of KNO3, last time I tested, it was at 40!

I do not want to add Marcyn if possible and may try doing a 3-4 day black out, now would I disconnect the pressurized CO2 while tank is in a black out or should I leave it going?

I am going on vacation for a week beginning next Saturday and if I don't do this before I leave, I will most likely come back to a tank smothered in Cyano. Have I mentioned how much I hate this stuff? Even though it's not really too bad YET, it's destroyed a couple of my plants, with stem completing melting turing black and melting away.

Thoughts on the CO2 being left on or turned off are greatly appreciated.

Thank you!
Linda

 

[rich311k]

I liked this answer so I will post it again. Turn off your CO2, add an airstone or lower your water level to keep O2 levels up. I would cover in black plastic and then put a heavy comforter over the tank to insure no light gets through.

 

[LindaC]

Thanks Rich, I've already added an airstone, my Aqua Clear filter is a 70 which is big for a 29 gallon I like it a lot, however; it doesn't give a lot of water movement. I will take a little of the water out, as I'm going to do another 50% water change this afternoon and then cover it with a trash bag and a light comforter.

If my calculations are correct, I would remove it on Thursday. It's always something with my tanks, I sure hope that someday all the problems I've been having come to a halt so I can enjoy my tanks for a while.

Thanks again!
Linda

 

[rich311k]

Good luck. It will be fine.