7 Day old tank = Diatoms

[xbrl001]

So today I've noticed my tank has started to grow diatoms REALLY quickly. I always read it was quick, but I had no idea it could be this quick. I have a 10 gallon tank with a couple hermits and snails. I know they eat it, but I'm hoping it doesn't continue to grow at this rate I fear it will be too much for them to handle. The tank went from a few brown spots on the rocks to the picture below overnight. I know this isn't too bad yet but I want to make sure it doesn't get out of control. I know water changes can help. Should I also run my lighting less? Should I consider those chemi pure bags that reduce phosphates? Or should I just kind of let this run it's course?

 

[fishroomlady]

just let it run its course. I will get kinda nasty looking but there's nothing you can do until the silicates are used up. I suppose you could brush it off the rocks if you'd like.

 

[steve&mari]

Part of cycling a new tank it'll clear as it cycles. Lights not needed to cycle it so it does help keeping algae down.

 

[saltyphish]

Don't worry about it. Perfectly normal for a new tank. It is part of the cycle process and as mentioned above once the silicates are used up it will go away. Just track your parameters and make sure everything is in line.

 

[xbrl001]

Thanks all! I'll continue to just keep an eye on it!