Diatoms, Dino, or what?

[Joshb757]

My tank had zero algae 4 days ago... now it looks like this. I’ve looked up pictures on google of various algae’s but I guess I don’t know enough to tell the difference between some of the similar looking ones. The tank is 5 weeks old. My nitrates are between 10 and 20... who knows with api.

 

[Flippers4pups]

My tank had zero algae 4 days ago... now it looks like this. I’ve looked up pictures on google of various algae’s but I guess I don’t know enough to tell the difference between some of the similar looking ones. The tank is 5 weeks old. My nitrates are between 10 and 20... who knows with api.

The difference between diatoms and dinoflagellates visually can be very difficult. A microscope confirmation is needed.

 

[Joshb757]

The difference between diatoms and dinoflagellates visually can be very difficult. A microscope confirmation is needed.

Should I just wait and see if it goes away on its own? I’m currently trying to slowly get my nitrates down to 5-10ppm and I know that could have different effects on different algae’s. My understanding is that diatoms leave on their own. I’m starting to use vibrant today as well... I don’t have the means for a microscope.

 

[Elmervc15]

1. Buy some snails
2. Since you have i think 1 fish, only feed him every other day.
3.remove manually (with brush or anything whatever you can)
4.do a 30% water change to reduce your nitrate.
5.be patiente

You should be fine.