Diatoms began, now what

[ReeferBill]

So my diatom bloom started 3 days ago. Things are looking bad….but good. Question is this.
im running the skimmer and it’s really pulling some crap out. Is that ok to run during the cycle?
Also when do I add carbon? Do I wait until after the cycle or do I do that now?
Lastly when do I run my uv sterilizer?

planning to get some clowns this weekend in the tank. Cuc arrives in a week.
thanks for any info.

 

[Slocke]

Are you talking about adding activated carbon or carbon dosing?
Really you don't need to do anything. Let it pass. You could add copepods now as the diatoms will be good food for them but otherwise just let it pass naturally.

 

[ReeferBill]

Activated carbon in a bag.

 

[ReeferBill]

Sounds good. Ok to run the skimmer then too? It’s pulling out lots of stuff.

 

[Slocke]

I always have activated carbon in the tank as it makes the water look better and helps remove any toxins. It lasts a really long time so I don't see any reason why not.
Yes run the skimmer its good to get dialed in so its operating smoothly once you have fish.
As for UV I don't see any need till you add fish.

 

[ReeferBill]

But should I use carbon while it cycles or let it do it’s thing until the cycle is complete.

 

[Slocke]

Doesn't matter. Uglies is caused by algae and carbon doesn't really do anything for algae.

 

[ReeferBill]

Then i won’t run carbon as it doesn’t seem like it would help. Thanks