The Uglies?

[Amedais]

My tank has been cycling for about 3 1/2 weeks now. My Ammonia is zip and nitrites are almost gone. The last few days this algae bloom exploded. It's very light and can be blown around with the power head. Is this the classic Uglies I've read about, that should clear up on its own? Or is it something I need to remedy? Thanks for your help.

 

[ReefKeep66]

Yes these are your brown diatoms meaning your tank is pretty much through the cycle phase. The algae feeds from light, silicates, and nutrients throughout your aquarium. These will eventually die on their own but many people including myself, aren't that patient. "Starving" the algae has worked best for me. There are some products you can buy to aid this but it's almost as easy doing it yourself. For example, cutting your lights off is a big one.

 

[thegrun]

They are diatoms, not algae. While it will likely go away on its own, it can also be a sign of too little water flow.

 

[Amedais]

Ok thanks for the quick answers. I'm reworking my power heads, didn't want them stirring the stuff up at first. And cutting my lights. Thanks.

 

[ReefKeep66]

They are diatoms, not algae. While it will likely go away on its own, it can also be a sign of too little water flow.

Diatoms are in the family of algae..