Algae ID

[Brad G.]

Hello everybody! My tank has been up and running since early July but I am now dealing with this copper/rust color algae which is growing mainly on my rocks. It comes off pretty easy with a toothbrush but returns pretty quickly within a day or so. From the research I’ve done, it’s looks to me like it is possibly calothrix algae. If this is in fact calothrix algae, would chaeto help with this issue?

 

[Bret Brinkmann]

That is what it looks like to me too. I'm guessing your tank is pretty new? Sounds like it's going through the ugly phase. I recommend checking nitrates and phosphates just makes sure they are super high but keep in mind zero is probably worse due to a potential dino outbreak.

Once you know your nutrients, then you can determine if you need some form of nutrient control like a fuge or algae scrubber. Also consider some kind of herbivore like snails to eat what has grown. If your tank is large enough you could consider a tang or rabbit fish too.