Reef Success - Calk (Does it promote algae growth)

[chrisbenavides]

I was wondering if Reef Success Calk, which is made of Calcium and Bicarbonate, would cause an algae bloom or algae growth.

I think I have heard that it may actually decrease it. True or not true?

I am currently trying to figure out why I have been getting some algae growth on my sand, since I have not been adding any top-off water in the past 2 weeks. I am waiting for an RO-DI unit, but probably won't be able to afford one till a month from now, so some say I should add distilled water. Which I did initially 7 months ago, and I did go through your typical algae bloom but it stopped for a few months. Now its starting up again, so I am not adding any water to the tank.

Is Reef Success the problem? What about Strontium? Is adding Iodine a problem?

Hope you guys can direct me to possible problems. But I do want to know if it is possible that Reef Success can cause algae growth.

THANKS!!!

:rollface: :rollface: :eek1: :rollface: :rollface:

 

[chrisbenavides]

bump

 

[szwab]

if you are not adding water to the tank you'll need to keep an eye on your SG.
Do you have a LFS that sells RO water?

never used Reef Success Calk. but it shouldn't promote algea. seeing as you are not topping off have you also stopped water changes? that could be a factor.

 

[Amphiprion]

I don't think those are your problems, however, algae are opportunistic and certain species grow in response to favorable conditions (overabundance N and P, plus certain "trace" elements). I am of the school of thinking that no other supplements are necessary other than Calcium and carbonate/bicarbonate. Water changes are sufficient for the rest. More likely, you have a greater abundance of one of the macro-elements like phosphate and nitrate. Protein skimming, water changes, greater circulation, less feeding, etc. will help you fight it off in the long run.

 

[chrisbenavides]

I just added some distilled water....

I do add trace elements like Strontium and Iodine.

Should I stop that?

 

[szwab]

If you don't test for them I wouldn't add them
Doing regular water changes should replenish trace elements IMO. I as well do not use additives I never really noticed a difference with or without them. The only things I worry about are calcium, alkalinity and magneseum