Algae vs Toothbrush..

[Frop]

Well, I saw a bunch of algae on one rock. Probably showing up more due to increased lighting. I thought it would be a good idea to scrub it off with a toothbrush and do a water change. But now I'm thinking this might've made it worse since it didn't all come off and now there is a bunch of tiny things clinging to the glass. So I'm wondering if I just seeded the tank with algae...

I just bought a protein skimmer to try and combat the neutrients (I have a nano). Hopefully the chaeto will do the trick also that has already been in the tank for multiple weeks. I'm not exactly sure when I need to remove chaeto. But I took 1/3 lb out.

 

[bif24701]

Remove Cheato when you can't possibly grow more. Out of room or whatever, the larger the ball the faster it absorbs nutrients and boosts O2

 

[cromag27 Verified Sponsor]

No, you didn't make it worse. cheato can work but gfo works better on po4 and water changes for no3. also make sure you're not feeding too much and that you're not running your lights for some ridiculously long amount of time. a skimmer will have a minimal effect.

 

[tomtom2245]

If possible, I always try to remove the offending rock or whatever is covered in algae and scrub it in a separate container. That was all the fine particulate is kept out of the tank and I can then rinse it before going back in the tank.

 

[Frop]

and that you're not running your lights for some ridiculously long amount of time.

Ya my light might be a little on the long size. I tried to kick out an hour and a half just now to play it safe. I have it basically on what looks like a bell curve.