Hair algae?

[tomreefer]

Ok my tank is new and getting a bad hair algae outbreak. I am thinking getting most of it off by removing rock in a separate container and getting most of it off. However, I have some rock with sponges whats the best method?

 

[LucaDash]

Are you running GFO in a reactor? Using RODI water? What are your means for controlling phosphate?

 

[anthonys51]

as lucadash stated please describe your tank a little more. maybe even a picture.

 

[tomreefer]

not using a gfo reactor. I am using rodi water.

 

[LucaDash]

First off. Invest in a reactor and run GFO. Second check/replace your filters on the RODI. Removing the hair algae will work some, but if you keep replenishing the tank with phosphate (in your water) then you will always be fighting an up hill battle.

 

[anthonys51]

more info really. gha is caused by too many nutrients. could be over feeding, and a few other things.

water changes, do you have a protein skimmer.
have you tested for phosphates or nitrates yet

 

[tomreefer]

I just added phos-zorb. I will check my parameters tomorrow.

 

[anthonys51]

get a gfo reactor, its more efficient want to use gfo. phos-zorb is just a type of gfo that comes in a bag. reactors are a better way to go. although i bought one and still haven't used it, my tank just doesn't get phosphates in it no matter how much i feed them

 

[tomreefer]

what about vinegar dosing?

 

[anthonys51]

in a new tank i wouldnt advise it, thats like taking diet pills to lose weight, it works but how good is it really long term, solve the problem first.

what size is your tank
how many lbs of live rock and sand
what fish you have in there
how much you feed them and how often
what type of cuc you have

also a little hair algae is ok

 

[ZR440]

pull it off & GFO & sea hare

 

[Dogshowgrl]

Short term seahare. I do not run gfo, I can't afford one yet. I feed mostly frozen and RINSE my food. Phosphates are required in all fish foods for them to build bones, the FDA regulations enforce this. I can't throw a bunch of money at my tank so I try to find the source, and limit it. Great start with RODI! Now turn your attention to phosphates, they can be leached form rocks and food. So start by rinsing food. The little shrimps and clams live in very nasty water before they are processed and then you throw that right in your tank. Here is my little rinse kit: nylon strainer (Amazon set of three) and a disposable container. I defrost in tank or RO water. ( FYI soaking RO if you want it to float longer, saltwater if target feeding. Learned that feeding my seahorses.) Then rinse with tank water then feed. Watch the amount you are feeding to lower nitrates. Yes, GFO is a great thing to have!!! If you can buy one get one!!! Test the more you know the better you are fighting it. Best of luck!