Dosing vs Algae Confusion

[Maho.B]

So yesterday I did take a sample to my LFS because they have a good microscope and it turns out I have Ostreopsis type of dinoflagelletes. Reading up on those every source (including my LFS) says to use a UV sterilizer. Dumb question but is there a "threshold" of when one is needed? Meaning if it's a relatively small outbreak (if there is such a thing) are there other methods to deal with it or is it always UV? The size unit I will need for my tank volume is $420 plus a pump, and it's a fairly large item and I already have so little room below the tank. Just curious if there are other ways to manage these or if I have to figure out the UV situation. Thanks

 

[thedon986]

Other than UV it’s just raising N and P and time. You can siphon the strands into a fine micron sock like 10 microns but they will reform. Kind of just buys you time while something up ramps up to compete after you’ve got nutrients up.

 

[Maho.B]

Good to know, thank you