New Biocube 29 Question

[mwilson.rcdd]

Son just set this up. BC29, stock pump, 20lb live sand, protein skimmer, no filter.

Going for 2 weeks. Water levels good (rodi water with buffer and salt mix). Minor ammonia spike to under .25ppm and the two bullets are pretty happy after 5 days.

What's the discoloration shown I this photo? Hard to see, but a tan/light brown coverage on the sand. Trying to help his irresponsible teenage self become responsible without dad, but want to also find out myself.

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[Ryan Darilek]

The light brown buildup you're seeing is called diatomaceous algae "diatoms'. It's just part of the cycle and there's nothing you can really do to prevent it for the next 4 months or so. Start planning out for a clean up crew and that'll help keep it manageable

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[RobZilla04]

If you started with base rock and dry sand I would be skeptical that you're fully cycled. In either case the tank is going to go through the normal algae blooms as a part of the early life cycle. You'll see browns, then greens, and they can get pretty nasty.

 

[mwilson.rcdd]

Thank you both! That's what he told me... But never trust what a 13 year old says, lol. What's the standard cleanup crew? It was live sand from our local House of Tropicals. Staff there is awesome and very helpful but a 15min drive and we'd rather not go there for basic questions.

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[RobZilla04]

Thank you both! That's what he told me... But never trust what a 13 year old says, lol. What's the standard cleanup crew? It was live sand from our local House of Tropicals. Staff there is awesome and very helpful but a 15min drive and we'd rather not go there for basic questions.

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This forum is full of info and advice. The search function allows you (or him) to search a key word or phrase along with related topics/threads of discussion.

Typical clean up crew (CUC) consists of various types of crabs & snails. Everyone has their favorites. Some are even hated. Turbo snails and blue leg hermit crabs are among the most popular. Emerald crabs should be avoided in a reef tank.