Cyanobacteria experience

[Jwalker814]

So I recently started a new system, and it's is my first time experiencing cyanobafteria. Took a trip to LFS in order to obtain something to fight it. They suggested a sand sifter to stir up the sand as cyano can come and go.

So I purchased a sleeper head goby. It's now day 2 and well as you would guess nothing has changed haha.

Just curious to know causes and cures for this growth.

Other than it being caused by a phosphate/nitrate issue. I guess I'm looking for more specifics.

 

[DeniseAndy]

What if we use multiple methods? If it is in my low flow tank (LPS brains) then I use a turkey baster and blow at the same time I am siphoning for a water change. Cumbersome, but controls to some extant. I really would rather not use chemicals on this system. In my sump I just wipe it off when I do water changes. Do not get in my main system as I have tons of flow. At least that is my theory. I have had it in the past, not sure what got rid of it. I have tried the removers, but not sure they are all that effective in the long run. Kind of like killing aiptasia, they come back. Terminator style.

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

I recommend reduced organics and nutrients. Not a choice.

If you are desperate, an antibiotic can be effective.

 

[Jwalker814]

I recommend reduced organics and nutrients. Not a choice.

If you are desperate, an antibiotic can be effective.

OK so what if there are almost 0 nutrients and organics introduced. Only dosed microbacter 4 times in 2 weeks when it was called for daily.

 

[DeniseAndy]

Is that the only flow in the tank? How large is that tank. I cannot tell from picks, but if that powerhead is it, you need more movement.

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

OK so what if there are almost 0 nutrients and organics introduced. Only dosed microbacter 4 times in 2 weeks when it was called for daily.

Organics come from foods and biological processes in the tank, not just by addition. So things like more skimming and organic binders (GAC, purigen, etc.) can help).

How low is phosphate? Almost no nutrients is not none, and may not be low enough. In fact, it may only be low because the cyano is consuming it. Regardless of the value, intercepting it before the cyano gets it often helps.

 

[Jwalker814]

Is that the only flow in the tank? How large is that tank. I cannot tell from picks, but if that powerhead is it, you need more movement.

It is the only powerhead. I'm moving almost 1700gph if not more through the return. Gomna play with it some more. Have vertually no head on a 3100 gph pump and only wanted a 4x turnover rate to have more exposure in sump. Waiting on more powerheads to come in.

Organics come from foods and biological processes in the tank, not just by addition. So things like more skimming and organic binders (GAC, purigen, etc.) can help).

How low is phosphate? Almost no nutrients is not none, and may not be low enough. In fact, it may only be low because the cyano is consuming it. Regardless of the value, intercepting it before the cyano gets it often helps.

Honestly phosphate is the only thing I haven't tested as I don't have test kit. As a dumb as it sounds I haven't had one in the 2 years of reef keeping.

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

Honestly phosphate is the only thing I haven't tested as I don't have test kit. As a dumb as it sounds I haven't had one in the 2 years of reef keeping.

I very rarely test anything other than salinity and temperature, so it isn't dumb when things are working well.

 

[saltyfilmfolks]

An issue I had early on with my current 55 was without enough turbulent flow none of the detritus way actually making it into the sump. My sump and fuge was cleaner than the tank It's mostly low to med in the tank per livestock so it was a tricky balancing act. My sump was clean for months. Changed up the flow and now the sump and fuge is delightfully gross. Chato and macros took off pods increased and the DT is cleaner.

 

[jcrow802]

Any update?