Algae

[Matt1351]

I just started my tank and It was been going for about Two weeks now...I just put a couple damsels (loc pet store tested my water said It would be okay to put them In there) In there and prob 20 25 lbs of live rock, so far. I am starting to get green algae on top of my live rock,I think It has to do something with my lighting situation I dont have my lighting set on a timer yet. I just got off work tonight and noticed It. My ? Is want can I do to get rid of It...will It be okay to put some turbo snails In there. or just wait It out and finish my cycling process..... Thanks matt

 

[mike660r]

You are going through new tank syndrome. It is normal to have algea start growing. If you don't have any corals in the tank limit your lighting to only the time you are home. Get some cleaners, i.e. hermit crabs and couple snails. Turbos will probably be to large for your tank. They will knock over any corals you put in unless they are firmly secured.

Are you using an R/O unit to filter your water before you mix it with salt?

 

[Matt1351]

I am using R/O water...So Its cool to put some cleaners In there even know I have not finished my cycling process?

 

[markviiisvt4]

if the store said it was ok to put fish in then the cycling process is over

 

[RSX typeS]

Matt,
You can add your cleaning crew. I'm also in the process of cycling my new tank and I have an algae bloom taking place as well. I have scarlet hermit crabs and astraea snails and they are doing a decent job of controlling the algae.
Good luck.

 

[serpentman]

Although a cleanup crew is a nice addition, the best way to address nuisance algae is nutrient control. As your tank matures, available nutrients will be used up and algae should abate somewhat on its own. Skimmimg, perhaps the use of a refugium, monitor feeding, and running GFO are also possibilities if you find nutrient levels don't decrease on their own.

 

[Matt1351]

Thanks I just picked up some cleaners today