<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12227654#post12227654 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by smalls383
I have recently has a outbreak of brown algea all over my LR. The tank has been cycling for about 7-8 weeks and there is currently nothing in it. Nitrates are just about to be ready for CUC.....
So my question is what is it and how do I get rid of the brown algea?
<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12227702#post12227702 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by D to the P
this is all part of the cycling process. different algaes will pop up and dissapear. the best way to get rid of brown algae is by utilizing snails and the like, and letting them eat it. Keep an eye on your nitrates and phosphates (key fertilizers for algae) and as long as they are as low as you can get them you should have no problems. Just remember, algae never grows for no reason. There is either nitrates or phosphates in your water, the lights are on too long, or natural sunlight is shining on your tank. That being said, algae grows on reefs everywhere in nature so don't fret.
<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=12227820#post12227820 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by D to the P
yes the algae will lower the nitrates (it's absorbing it hence its growth in the first place).
no, do not medicate. there is absolutely no reason to add a chemical to your tank when it there is a natural, safe method to removing unwanted algae. plus algacides remove DO from the water which there is already a lack of in salt water.
again, algae will grow. its supposed to. work on lowering your nitrates and the problem will cease. In order to do that you will need to use a clean water source (ro/di) and do 10% water changes weekly, and possibly use a media in your filter to help.
no, not all salt water snails are prolific. Infact only a few will actually take over your tank like the fresh water trumpet snails do. Get yourself a mexican turbo snail or two and watch the algae dissapear.
and no, do not leave your lights off. this solves nothing it is just a band aid. plus brown algae is nothing to worry about.