This is why I need test kits

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So, I have a cyno bacteria breakout that is starting on my sand.

Any suggestions? It's been a long time since I set-up a tank.

Thanks.

 

[zombiereef]

test for phosphates and nitrates. make sure all other params are in order. some things that i notice cause cyano are disturbing the sandbed, low flow and tank cycling.

 

[Sisterlimonpot]

+1 the other thing I would add to low flow is low light as well

 

[zombiereef]

+1 on low light. mine grows like crazy in the shadows of corals. my fish disturb the sandbed so much that i constantly have some cyano at any given time.

 

[jonthefb]

Also, consider that your tank is still fairly new. You will go through an algae cycle just like you will an ammonia cycle, of which red slime is one of the phases. Typically in a new tank set up it will come and go before you need to worry about it.

 

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Gotcha. Well the light is new, 14k 70W MH, so I think it is getting plenty of light. I also see some tiny, tiny, tiny, green hair-like substance on the glass and part of the rock work.

Got my water tested at both Denver Fish Warehouse last week, pH too low so buffered and again last night at Liquid Kingdom. When they tested last night everything looked good except the pH was still too low.

Thanks, by the way, for all the help!!!! I truely need it.

 

[gh0st]

Low PH or High Temps can both favor Cyano as well.

If you are having low PH issues, be sure to check your Alkalinity (also called Carbonate Hardness) as well as Calcium. If Ca or KH are out of whack, they will constantly throw off PH as well.

Poor air flow in the area the tank is in can cause chronic low PH too. Sometimes opening a nearby door or window a crack can work wonders.

 

[space]

Temps staying around 78 and Alk and CA all checkout ok.

I'll try the window idea since I'm in the basement with my office and tank it doesn't get any new air.

 

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Cyno fixed, as I increased the random flow.

Now I have this brown stuff growing on my sand. I thought this would be normal with the rock still getting th dead stuff off but not sure.

Thanks!