Cycling

[randy4083]

Do all tanks get algae that are cycling because I haven't gotten no algae bloom and today is 3 weeks into the cycle but I leave my light off so is this the reason why I haven't gotten an algae outbreak

 

[PatW]

It took my tank just over 3 weeks to get algae and I had my lights on.

 

[twilliard]

That is a great question!
You may be spore free in your tank

 

[randy4083]

Should I leave the light off because my lfs said that it would be best because of algae until the cycle is done and I got the Kessel 360we on the tank

 

[twilliard]

You can run your lights if you would like to enjoy the viewing of the tank.

 

[randy4083]

And it won't cause algae problem or what and if not how long should I run them

 

[randy4083]

Is this brown diatoms on the sandbed

 

[randy4083]

And what's this on my rock it's fully cured live rock and I just found this thing

 

[Jakepen]

I have a similar question. I'm two weeks into my cycle, and converting NH3 to NO3. Should I start running my lights to start the algae?

 

[randy4083]

it's this fuzzy looking thing and something that looks like a ball of stuff with red spots on it

 

[twilliard]

It looks to be a sponge species.

 

[twilliard]

I have a similar question. I'm two weeks into my cycle, and converting NH3 to NO3. Should I start running my lights to start the algae?

You don't have to run your lights during the process but you can if you would like to view the tank.
There really isn't a start to algae it will (if present) grow naturally

 

[randy4083]

Is it gonna hurt anything should I get it out and what's that whisker looking thing

 

[twilliard]

Is it gonna hurt anything should I get it out and what's that whisker looking thing

Sponge is harmless and from what I can see the tree may also be a sponge

 

[randy4083]

Oh okay thanks

 

[_Conway]

Should I leave the light off because my lfs said that it would be best because of algae until the cycle is done and I got the Kessel 360we on the tank

Algae growth is a natural part of the process. Everyone goes through it. Diatoms are first and is a sign your tank is nearing the end of the cycle.

The Tang might like some light a few hours a day or at least during feedings.

 

[jetmaker]

Do all tanks get algae that are cycling because I haven't gotten no algae bloom and today is 3 weeks into the cycle but I leave my light off so is this the reason why I haven't gotten an algae outbreak

I cycled with lights out and didn't get bad algae

 

[_Conway]

Do all tanks get algae that are cycling because I haven't gotten no algae bloom and today is 3 weeks into the cycle but I leave my light off so is this the reason why I haven't gotten an algae outbreak

Algae requires nutrients to grow as well as light. Most people don't have algae till after cycling when nitrates and phosphate fuel their growth.

 

[Jakepen]

So, running the lights won't cause a huge algae bloom? I always heard keep the lights off...

 

[_Conway]

So, running the lights won't cause a huge algae bloom? I always heard keep the lights off...

A lot of people don't cycle with lights. A lot of different opinions on the subject.
You will get algae when you start running lights. How much depends on amount of light and available nutrients. LR leaches nutrients. Cured rock not so much.
Good idea to start slow and gradually increase lighting time.
Algae growth is normal part of establishing a tank. When you go through it is up to you.