help with red algae problem

[jvholg]

Need help. I have a major red alage problem. I recently bought 2 metal halides and retrofit my canopy and that is when I started having the problem.

My tank is 115 gallons with 175 pounds live rock. the canopy is approximately 10 inches above the tank. I have placed the glass covers above the tank to prevent splashing of water onto the bulb.


Tank is 48X18X30.
Should I be worried?

I have queen angel, 2 chromis, 2 clowns....

 

[bertoni]

How long has the tank been up? That kind of problem is common in new tanks.

Longer term, overfeeding, insufficient flow, and not enough nutrient export can cause problems.

 

[Blown 346]

The increae of lighting is probably what caused the problem to really bloom out and cause problems. I agree with Bertoni, you need to test your phosphates etc, and look at feeding habits to nip the problem in the bud.

 

[szwab]

good advice above the new lighting most likely tipped the scale in the alea;s favor. how close are your bulbs to the tank IMO you'd be better off w/o the glass cover.
what do you feen and how much with the wet dry your nitrates may be elevated. id this a fish only tank? up about 3 months? increase your flow in the area and give it some time.

 

[jvholg]

thanks for the advice. the tank has been up for over a year now, but recently moved 2 months ago and brought it to the new house. I used 1/2 of the water from the old place and 1/2 new. I do water changes every week 10%. It is a fish only tank for now, but plan on getting coral again. I did use to have more circulation in the tank, but 2 pumps burnt out and have not replaced them since I moved in the new house. lights are approximately 6-8 inches above tank.

 

[szwab]

i think you'd be ok w/o the glass. replace the pumps and you'lll be back in business. it's funny how a small change can effect things in our tanks!