Dino ID

[RockyProndoa]

Hello:

Currently running a 5+ year old 135g mixed reef display with a 100g rubbermaid sump (about 50-60g actual water volume). Bottomed out nitrates and phosphates - these guys appeared along with what I believe to be derbesia sp.

Pics 1 and 2: Look like Ostreopsis to me - can anyone else confirm? If so, any other treatment besides UV? (trying not to break the bank if I don't have to).

Pics 3 and 4: Gathered a mat of 'algae' - not sure what to make of this mess...?

Appreciate the help!

 

[RockyProndoa]

And FWIW, some larger tank shots of what I am dealing with in regards to the algae...

 

[vetteguy53081]

And FWIW, some larger tank shots of what I am dealing with in regards to the algae...

These are large cell amphidium.
When we see zero readings, automatically we assume this is the cause but by the time you see zero numbers, its because the dino has consumed the po4 and no3 and are multiplying and in turn many dose no3 and po4 to bring numbers up not realizing they are feeding these flagellates even more.
Its biological deficiencies that are causing the dino structure and tank is already doomed.
No light is first key followed by the addition of bacteria to overcome the bad bacteria allowing them to thrive
Prepare by starting by blowing this stuff loose with a turkey baster and siphon up loose particles. Turn lights off (at least white and run blue at 10-15% IF you have light dependant corals) for 5 days and at night dose 1ml of 3% hydrogen peroxide per 10 gallons for all 5 nights. If you dont have light dependent coral- turn all lights off. During the day dose 1ml of liquid bacteria (such as micro bacter 7 or XLM) per 10 gallons. Clean filters daily and DO NOT FEED CORAL FOODS OR ADD NOPOX
You can feed fish as normal and if doing blackout, ambient light in room will work for them

 

[RockyProndoa]

These are large cell amphidium.

Thank you for the response.

In an effort to learn how you came to that conclusion, can you share what were the determining factors when making that decision? I've looked at my pic 1 and 2 countless times and compared with other images online, and I can't help but notice that reference large cell amphidium images all show a 'tail' for lack of a better term with a round body whereas mine are more oval-shaped and nearly pointed on the end.

 

[vetteguy53081]

Thank you for the response.

In an effort to learn how you came to that conclusion, can you share what were the determining factors when making that decision? I've looked at my pic 1 and 2 countless times and compared with other images online, and I can't help but notice that reference large cell amphidium images all show a 'tail' for lack of a better term with a round body whereas mine are more oval-shaped and nearly pointed on the end.

Center circle and mouth of the cell and a decade of getting others out of dino headaches LOL