Chloroquine phosphate and Algae

Overboard · May 31, 2018

I believe I have read that CP is an algaecide, but I am seeing green algae growing on the glass and pvc pipes (for shelter). Is that an indication the CP is dissipating or absorbed? I have added Matrix to assist with biofiltration. I saw the results with Copper so it seemed logical Matrix would not absorb CP.

QT is a 40 breeder with an angel and tang. Both doing well. Light is a Kessler, but turned way down. The

Big G · May 31, 2018

Chloroquine phosphate is an anti-malaria and anti-inflammatory drug. Unaware of it having any anti-algae properties.

Humblefish · May 31, 2018

Big G said:
Chloroquine phosphate is an anti-malaria and anti-inflammatory drug. Unaware of it having any anti-algae properties.

It is also a strong algaecide. Back in the day (before reef tanks), it kept our coral skeleton decorations nice & white.

Big G · May 31, 2018

Awesome! Great to know. Thanks Humblefish

Overboard · May 31, 2018

Thanks guys.

Seems like absorption going on?

AcanthurusRex · Jun 1, 2018

I had some algae the last time with CP. Nothing like I get using copper. I don't think a media that does not react with copper would react with CP.

Humblefish · Jun 1, 2018

AcanthurusRex said:
I had some algae the last time with CP. Nothing like I get using copper. I don't think a media that does not react with copper would react with CP.

I would be suspect of any CP that allows algae to grow. It usually causes a white film to form on the glass/equipment in lieu of algae growth.

Or possibly it is being biodegraded: https://www.reef2reef.com/threads/qt-and-biofilm.292878/

AcanthurusRex · Jun 1, 2018

That is why the fish are in copper. The CP was only a bit over a year old. There wasn't very much algae and appeared at the 4th week. I don't think I had any in previous QT rounds; the previous QT was completed in March. This batch of fish was particularly dirty.

Overboard · Jun 1, 2018

I am using a fresh batch from Diamondback so I would hope it is good. Learning about the biofilm concern. Tank has been running for about 4 months as I had a previous round of fish in the tank for quarantine. Need to really up on the biofilm thread but might need to break the tank down and clean it.