Black algee

[lewis.maryann08]

I have this black Algee how do I get rid of it ? Is it normal?

 

[twilliard]

Cyano bacteria
Lower the DOC's of the water

 

[lewis.maryann08]

I dont want to sound stupid but whats DOC, S

 

[twilliard]

Dissolved organic compounds
The nasty stuff skimmers pull out

 

[lewis.maryann08]

So I need to run my skimmer? I have one but its crap always overflowing in my tank..

 

[twilliard]

Water changes is best if your not running a skimmer
Also siphon up as much as you can

 

[lewis.maryann08]

I do water changes every 2 weeks do I need to do it more often?

 

[twilliard]

Yes to bring the DOC's down.
Do you have a film on the top of the water?
Or I would figure out the bug in the skimmer

 

[lewis.maryann08]

No water is clear

 

[twilliard]

How big is your tank?

 

[lewis.maryann08]

I want to build a sump so my skimmer can go in it I have a tank of fresh water fish I would give away so I could use that tank for my sump ..maybe I need a new skimmer

 

[lewis.maryann08]

55 gallon

 

[twilliard]

I would try to get your skimmer running.
Is the venturi plugging up?
Most common cause for flooding

 

[lewis.maryann08]

You talking about the air hose?

 

[twilliard]

You talking about the air hose?

Yes, where it attaches to the pump will build up with salts and calcium
If you can't freely blow through it then its time to clean out the venturi

 

[lewis.maryann08]

Its not stopped up it has never worked very good since I bought it got it off ebay I will che k it all and try to get it going thank you for all the help