Turf Wars: The Algae Awakens

[QuiGonJay]

My question is about a bloom of algae after about 1 year and 4 months into the tank. First, I'm trying to ID - photo attached. It's very low growing and wiry and hard to remove. It grows on the live rock (probably was latent when I got the rock and something is causing it to flourish).

Second, curious as to cause as I want to eliminate. Relevant stats are nitrates 10 (normal for my tank), Red Sea phosphate kit shows .04. I change water (15 to 20%) every other week, 45 gallon all in one, use skimmer, run purigen and chemipure. My two thoughts: original skimmer died, replaced it after a few weeks, but that and break in could have contributed. Also, upgraded my failing LEDs with a new AI Hydra system. Did ramp up time over a few months. Currently I'm only running at 60% intensity max and only 5 hours with a ramp up and down of one hour. I feel I probably should be lighting a bit more but the algae has got me nervous.

Third, advice on removal? I've read a bit about GFO, is that something I could get to work in a tank as small as mine? Another option would be to try to remove some of the rock and scrub, though I don't want to harm the sponges and other life on them.

Help me Reef Central - you're my only hope!

 

[Scoted]

Maybe this will help
https://www.reefcleaners.org/nuisance-algae-id-guide

 

[QuiGonJay]

Maybe green turf or green wiry? Would a coral dip kill algae? Some of the rocks I can remove, trying to figure out how to help remove it but not kill the cup corals, sponges and corral inexpensive on the rocks

 

[ReefWhatYouSow]

I'm kind of in the same boat as you. I have gelidium (red wiry algae). Near impossible to get rid of cause it roots it's into the rock. I tried a few things but worked best for me was a mix of urchins, snails, and hermit crabs. The tuxedo urchin will pick skittle here and there, and the end result is he moved stuff around my tank a lot. I have a rock boring urchin which has done wonders. He'll chill in the same spot for a while an then take out a large patch. He might eat the same amount as the other but it at lest let's me think that he's making a difference. I also like that he stays nearly in one area. The. Moves. And then stays again lol... The snails and hermits seem to trim things down until the urchins make their way. I have always used torch is snails but I added a few Mexican turbo snails as they are the only ones that will at least touch the stuff.

Good luck!

 

[QuiGonJay]

Thanks. Might try an urchin from another tank. Have to watch then though as they sometimes munch on my gorgonian. Sigh, why can't we all just get along?

 

[azcrazy]

Tangs would eat that up , well at lest mine would