Algae and the cycle

[RayAllen3422]

My tank has been cycling for 8 weeks now. I will be doing some final tests (Salifert) tonight, but I believe it has cycled. The question that I have is I have no algae bloom yet. I have read multiple posts and articles about algae/diatom blooms. I have been diligent about keeping phosphates under control and have kept the lights off during the cycle.

I am sure once I turn the lights on I will have some algae. Am I doing something wrong and when should I turn those lights on?

 

[username in use]

You're fine. You are probably right that once the lights start running you're going to have some algae pop up.

 

[RayAllen3422]

You're fine. You are probably right that once the lights start running you're going to have some algae pop up.

So I should wait for algae before adding the CUC correct?

 

[username in use]

If there is nothing for them to eat they will just starve.

 

[RayAllen3422]

If there is nothing for them to eat they will just starve.

Makes sense to me. Thanks.

 

[Jscwerve]

Did the same thing here. Tank ran and cycled, 8 weeks with live rock and sand as well as water from a smaller tank. All hunky dory. Three weeks later now, started adding corals, and turning on the lights, boom. Diatoms and hair algae taking off.

Also noticed phosphates for the first time so it's time to do water changes.