green and red algie on sand

[fishamajiggle]

I have this green and red algie on my sand that is really trying my patience. I sift the sand every few days and it comes right back. i have a ton of snails in there and allot of flow to the tank ( tunze6080, and seio 1500) in a 125 aga. i have just added a refugium to the mix( 20 long with cheato ) and hope that will do the trick. any suggestions? ?
I was trying to get a goby to sift the sand but my tang killed him.

 

[eboonaman]

it's not alage, but a bacteria called Cynobacteria. this is cause by excessive nutrients in the water.
it can be temporary killed by using erythromycin, or any number of "red alage" removers (most contain some type of antibotic), you can also syphon it up daily and cut down on your feedings. I noticed in my tank when ever I use some type of coral food, phytoplankton, etc I get a outbreak the next day.
do a google search on Cynobacteria for more info.

 

[Reef Junkie]

I would take Chuck's latter advice.

Try to stay away from herbicides and other medications. Go natural, like change water, run some carbon, increase skimming.

If you do nothing, eventually it will go away on it's own.

 

[fishamajiggle]

nice

i have been wet skimming like hell, and getting good results, I added a fuge so that might help. no chemicals for me fellas.

thanks for the advice
Dan

 

[Reefist]

Series of water changes has always worked for me. It might take quite a few. Meanwhile removing and algae that accumulates.Also keep your skimmer clean.