Algae Cycle also in Freshwater?

[VR28man]

Off topic but.....

In the reef hobby, it came to my attention way too late (because it's not as well documented compared to the abundant discussion of the nitrogen cycle) that there is not only a nitrifying and denitrifying bacteria cycle, but also algae cycles. i.e. diatoms -> cyano -> gha -> until finally coralline. That is, especially if you have a new tank, many people suggest you just ride out, say, cyano, because they are evidence of an imbalance in the tank that would likely correct itself.

Is the same true in the freshwater world? I.e. if I have a new freshwater planted tank, that there will also be a diatom-> cyano -> algae cycle as the single cell organism community in the tank builds up over several months? And that many would just say "let it ride"?

My instinctive answer is "yes". I basically ignored a lightly stocked and planted freshwater tank (besides feeding inhabitants and irregular water changes) throughout high school (after setting it up in middle school) and after a year or so it never had any algae problems. It seemed to be a stable system.

Thanks!

 

[Lasse]

IMO - if you do it the right way - there is no uggly phases of algae growth in saltwater. Just concentrate into the nitrification cycle and have your aquaria biological mature as soon as possible. The new start of cyano/dino is no problem if you as soon as possible allow some NO3 and PO4 in your aquaria - if you want - you can fine tune after some months - but the start needs these nutrients. The normal algae growth - control it by early introduction of CUC.

In freshwater is the same - have a biological stable system ASAP - no problems. Just Google "pmdd aquarium" and you get some articles about this

Sincerely Lasse