AboutT.J Expertise I can answer virtually any question on saltwater fish. I have had saltwater aquariums for 8 years, ranging from large reefs to nano reefs. I can answer technical questions on lights, skimmers, heaters, etc. I am knowledgeable on species compatibility, diseases, tank setup, and more. I am EXTREMELY beginner friendly, if you are just starting a tank i will take the time to help you with everything. The only thing I am not too familiar with is breeding saltwater fish, I have had limited experience with breeding, so no breeding questions please.
Also, to answer questions, I need to know your the size of your tank, Lbs of LR, Lbs of live sand, and skimmer/filter/refugium/sump/lighting if applicable. else, it takes me longer to help you
Experience I have kept various reefs, from nano reefs to large reefs. I have had saltwater for 8 years, and am familiar with all equipment and species.
Expert: T.J Date: 7/24/2008 Subject: Brown Algae in new tank
Question Hi Tyler,
I'm in the process of setting up a new salt water tank. I've had fresh water
tanks for years and this is my first marine. The set up is into it's 7th week
and so far I have 15kgs of live rock in a 90L tank. At this stage I've not added
any coral or fish (plan to do that in about 2 weeks), however the live rock has
produced numerous brittle stars, a sea cucumber and a small urchin. My
question is regarding a brown algae outbreak I've got happening. I've read
heaps on why it is there, but I'm unsure as to what to do about it. I did a
water change a week ago (approx 1/3 tank), however within three days the
tank was growing brown algae again, this time faster than it was doing it
previously, it's on all surfaces! All water tests are normal. On advice from the
guy at the aquatics shop that I've bought everything from, with the water
change I added Calcium 3+ (Red Sea brand) to assist with the maintenance
of the purple coralline algae that is covering the live rock. could this have
caused the algae to grow faster? Is there anyway to remove it or should I just
let it take it's course? Thanks, Leigh
Answer Hey Leigh
perfectly normal, there are 3 algae stages, first is the brown algae, second is hair algae, 3rd is cyano, youre right on time for the brown algae. its perfectly normal. just ride it out and let it pass on its own, in a years time all 3 will be done and you will have a mature tank
