Brown Algae on live sand. Need input

[Capt56]

I have blotches of brown algae on my sand. I use RO/DI for my top off and salt mix. My phosphates read 0. I don't know where it's coming from. Everything else reads perfect except nitrate. That comes in at 5. But that's still very little. I can't put direct current on it cause it blows the sugar grain sand. Need some input

 

[Dmoody]

Thats a very minimal amount of algae and since your phosphates are probably very low I wouldnt worry about it because it will pass. You could have massive amounts of green hair algae and the phosphates may still read 0. Its just a part of the hobby if you ask me. The CUC should love it

 

[Mr. Bill]

How old is that tank?

Brown algae is usually diatoms which feeds on silicates and is fairly short-lived in newer systems.

 

[Capt56]

How old is that tank?

Brown algae is usually diatoms which feeds on silicates and is fairly short-lived in newer systems.

It's fairly new. I've had it set up since November of last year.

 

[Mr. Bill]

It's fairly new. I've had it set up since November of last year.

I'd say it's definitely diatoms, then. Should only last a month or so if it's left alone.