so i just set up my 150 gal 160lb live rock above tank fuge and 30 gal homade sump with bag filter live rock and skimmer. been up and running for 6 days and im getting brown diatom already is this ok i did use tap water and tap water conditioner when i filled it should i get a turkey baster and spray it or leave it alone
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6days running and here comes the brown stuff
- Thread starter kinder23
- Start date
Diatoms are VERY common when cycling a tank.
But,I would look into getting something better than tap water or conditioner.
Silicates fuel diatoms and silicates can be very high in tap water along with many other nasties.
But,I would look into getting something better than tap water or conditioner.
Silicates fuel diatoms and silicates can be very high in tap water along with many other nasties.
actually their not that expensive if you get them from bulk reef supply ......and i would start with some clean-up crew.......
tommy6905
Non-member
thats actually what i use,but i get it for free, otherwise it could get pretty pricey. and ive never had any problems with algae, clarity, and all inhabitants are thriving. i know alot of people will advise to stay clear of it but ive never had a problem with it plus i get it for free so no need to change. id say call your lfs and see what they offer, ive heard they usually sell it for like 50 cents/gal, hope that helps
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tommy6905
Non-member
ya fighting conchs are really good for the diatoms"brown stuff", but ya a good clean up crew will help for sure
willray
Division Champs
With all youve invested it won't be worth it, if you don't use a high quality filtered water. With the unfiltered tap water youve put in your already on the road to excess work and frustrations.Three things in this hobby are IMO must haves,
R/O filter,good lighting,great skimmer.Keep an eye open in the equipment f/s forum always great deals there.
R/O filter,good lighting,great skimmer.Keep an eye open in the equipment f/s forum always great deals there.
MikeG
Non-member
You forgot good circulation and stability!
Its not the cheapest way to do it, but I set up my most recent tank with Distilled water from a local distributor. Cost about $1.20 per gallon (once you return the deposit on the 5g jugs). I continue to use it for water changes etc. My previous tanks were done with NSW, Spring water, Some tap etc. Each time I fought algae of some kind.
In almost 4 months I have not had a single bit of hair algae, diatoms etc. All parameters were ideal and stayed that way. Knock on wood. So, assuming the result had to do wit the distilled water, compared to my previous tank battles.. worth every penny.
In almost 4 months I have not had a single bit of hair algae, diatoms etc. All parameters were ideal and stayed that way. Knock on wood. So, assuming the result had to do wit the distilled water, compared to my previous tank battles.. worth every penny.
