red algae

[Killerwhale]

hi,

is red algae harmful to the tank ? how to get ride of it ?

[ZeRoC00l]

Red algae = ???

if it's coraline algae, then it's ok. Got pink / reddish / green / purple colour. It means yr tank is having good conditions and yr calcium level is adequate.

If slime / cyno bacteria, then you got problem. Try to have a water change, blackout, and get a better skimmer... at the same time, feed less..

Can't give more details on how to fight cos I also very new to this Marine side.[:]

[Killerwhale]

hi,

don't look like coraline algae. It is just like the green algae but red in colour.

So anyone out here come across this problem ?

[kelstorm]

flaky?? can peel off when u brush against it?

[Killerwhale]

it is not flake type. I think is slime or a coat of red paint...

so is it harmful ?

[nleong]

i think i have them on my LR too. I just leave them alone, not sure if its harmful.

[bawater]

If its slimy & big chunks will come away & float off then its cyano.Spreads in the day.
Get a phosphate test kit & check levels, u want to stay within 0.015 to 0.2(or 0.3 max)- if its higher then this part od what is fuelling the algae, use seachem's phosguard/polyfilter pads or the new RowaPhos(which has the best feedback on the market).Nitrates are also a key fuel for algae.
A black out period will also cut back the spread of the algae.(do an internet search on this method)

If its dusty-like, u brush it with your finger & it puffs away then its diatoms (redish brown)its Normal in new tanks- they will be there until they suck up the majority of the silicates in the water. Harmless & snails love muching on it.

[Killerwhale]

Thanks.

Actually, I find the red algae quite attractive. If it is not harmful, I will just don't bother. So far, my tang love eating the red algae. My turbo snail love it too.

Anyone got the same experience that can share here ?[]