AlgaeFix Marine to control Hair Algae

[HighlandReefer]

From my reading as of this date most registrants containing Glutaraldehyde have been banned by EPA. Glutaraldehyde was banned completely in Great Britain several years ago.

 

[unbreakable]

whats another way to combat the hair algae? should i go back to carbon dosing daily? the algae seems like its a healthy green now

 

[HighlandReefer]

One other possibility that comes to mind would be to try elevating your magnesium level 300-400 ppm using Tech M. Some hobbyists have reported success with various species of algae using this method.

 

[Nadzchris]

i have been dosing this product for a month and a half now. no ill happenins' and no algea. good sh*t.

 

[HighlandReefer]

Nadzchris,

Glad to hear AF worked for you.

How long did you dose AF at the every three day interval rate?

Are you dosing once per week now?

How many doses did it take to get good control of your algae?

 

[Rodrigo_BG]

is this product toxic?

 

[HighlandReefer]

Everything is toxic at some level. Are you asking how toxic it is to humans or how toxic it is to tank inhabitants?

 

[HighlandReefer]

For a discussion regarding the AlgaeFix toxicity for reef inhabitants see the thread below.

Chemical Control of Algae?
http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1596521

 

[HighlandReefer]

For the toxicity of AlgaeFix to humans see this MSDS sheet:

http://cms.marsfishcare.com/files/msds/algaefix_2456.pdf

 

[stevedola]

how much should I dose of algeafix freshwater for my 90g softy/shroom/reef tank. It has a 15g sump and roughly 60lbs LR. Will this product harm shrimp?snails?urchin? I noticed on its label it warns against use with crustaceans.

 

[HighlandReefer]

One method I know of to help determine the accuracy of your tank water volume is to use the reef chemical calculator, estimate the amount of water volume and then increase your alk by about 2 dKH using baking soda. After you do this you can check your results after re-testing to make adjustments in your total water volume. You will have to be patient with this technique as it may take some time to do this safely.

Reef chemicals calculator
http://home.comcast.net/~jdieck1/chem_calc3.html

 

[HighlandReefer]

Regarding the Algaefix for freshwater vs for saltwater, we have been told by a rep. who works for the same company that they are identical. The difference is the labeling on the container. You will need to use the freshwater version per the label for AlgaeFix Marine.

This is the label for AlgaeFix Marine:

I typed the information from the label as best as I can. I am not responsible if I did not type it correctly.

"Benefits: AlgaeFix marine effectively controls these types of saltwater algae: Green algae (Cladaphora), "Red Loine" (Oscillatoria/Spirulina major), "Brown algae" (Cyclotela) in marine aquarium containing live corals, invertebrates and fish. When used in salt water will not harm snails, clams,scallops, shrimp, anemones, sea cucumbers, feather dusters, coralline algae, soft corals, hard corals and other invertebrates. Does not discolor the water or cause foaming.

Directions for use: It is a violation of federal law to use this product in a manner inconsistent with its labeling. Add 1 ml (1/5 tsp. for each 10 US gallons (38 L) or 5 ml (1 tsp.) for each 50 US gallons (190 L) or 50 ml. (10 tsp.) for each 500 US gallons (1,890 L) of aquarium water. Repeat dose every 3 days until algae is controlled. Siphon or scrape any dead algae from aquarium. Once algae growth is under control, add one dose per week. Weekly doses of AlgaeFix Marine will control Algae growth and reduce aquarium maintenance.

Precautionary Statement
Hazards to humans & domestic animals.

Caution: Harmful if swallowed or absorbed through the skin. Avoid contact with skin, eyes or clothing. Wash thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Note: This product contains a chemical known to the state of California to cause cancer.

First Aid: If on skin, thoroughly wash with soap and water and remove contaminated clothing. If in eyes, hold eye open and gently flush with water for 15 minutes. If Swallowed, call a Poison Control Center or doctor immediately for treatment advice.

Storage and Disposal: Do not contaminate water or feed. Do not reuse empty bottle. Rinse throughly before discarding in trash."

 

[HighlandReefer]

FWIW, I am not going to personally state that the marine version and frewater version are identical. I am just passing on information. :lol:

 

[stevedola]

has anyone had issue with shrimp dying from dosing this product? Im just worried about 120 bucks of ornamental shrimp dying.

 

[HighlandReefer]

There have been a couple of hobbyists who have reported loss of shrimp, which they could not directly attribute to AF, but were highly suspicious for lack of other possibilities.

 

[HighlandReefer]

FWIW, I would not recommend trying to increase your mag level using Tech M to control your algae due to some reports of dead shrimp & other invertebrates.

 

[stevedola]

ive trieed elevated mag...didnt work very well for my type of algea

 

[HighlandReefer]

Perhaps someone can hold your shrimp while you try the AlgaeFix. AlgaeFix will brake down within 24 hrs. So there should not be any risk after you have tried.

 

[Rodrigo_BG]

Everything is toxic at some level. Are you asking how toxic it is to humans or how toxic it is to tank inhabitants?

to humans, do you think we need to avoid hands in water when using this product?

 

[stevedola]

well a cleaner just kicked the bucket but the others are still fine. he was old and not as healthy as the others...prolly the push over the edge.