Is this a type of algea ?

[byrdman81]

I have this brown stuff popping up all over my tank, I checked the water it is fine. I have 4 snails to take care of algea but this stuff is just growing.
I took a pic. but it's not a good one. It's all over my filter and glass. Also along the sand bed.

Also the stuff floating is food I took this during their dinner.


Any advise would be helpful.

 

[byrdman81]

Heres a link to the pic. it was too big to post here.


http://www.angelfire.com/tn3/byrdman81/photos/mytank.jpg

 

[Fluff]

Your link didn't work.
How old is your tank? Could just be diatoms which is pretty normal for newer set ups. Is it slimy or powdery?

 

[byrdman81]

Hi if you just copy and paste the link into your browser it will work.
This sit up is only about a month old. I think it's more slimy feeling.

Thanks

 

[zacdl]

Although I cant really tell it just looks like Diatoms

 

[Fluff]

I cant really tell either. If it's slimy and comes up in sheets, it could be the beginnings of cyano.

 

[byrdman81]

I guess what i'm wondering is what are Diatoms? Are they bad?, if so what steps should be taken to remove them?

Also what is cyano is that bad?

Thanks

 

[Fluff]

Actually, diatoms are a natural part of a maturing tank. But, they aren't slimy. Since your system is pretty new, it could be diatoms and a good cleanup crew will help get rid of it, (snails, hermits) as well as time.
Cyano is actually a bacteria that feeds on high phosphates and is a real pain to get rid of. Most times it's a crimson red but can be brownish and also greenish in color.