Do I kill the algae or let it go?

[Amedais]

Need some advice from the experienced crowd here, my tank finished cycling about 2 weeks ago. Had a diatom bloom at the end of the cycle, so I did a 3 day blackout and that seemed to clear it right up. Got an Ocellaris Clown and a chocolatechip seastar for 3 days now.

My sand bed is growing this stuff quickly, it looks like GHA, but finer. Is it GHA or something else common within the months of a new tank? Should I take steps to remedy it or just let it run its course? The stuff that looks like its floating in the water is just the same thing, but growing on the glass. I appreciate the help.

 

[JammyBirch]

Where's your clean up crew (CUC)? The CUC, snails and hermits, are a big part of startup. They manage the cleanliness of the tank while it goes through these changes...get a CUC if you don't have it? And honestly, I'm new to this too, don't freak out too much these new tanks are messy on and off for a while.

 

[NSimpkins]

+1 on CUC.

How big is your tank? What are your parameters? When selecting clean up crew take the time to read what each type of member will do for your tank. Diversity is a good thing but don't over crowd. You can always add more. A good mix of snails is always a safe bet.