Green Star Polyps mat growing brown algae and not opening?

[staylor1490]

I recently purchased a small piece of a GSP mat and glued it to my tank bottom. However, the GSP hasn't opened since (its been four days now) and now is growing a thin film of brown algae on it. The mat is getting good flow and the other corals in the tank (zoas and mushrooms) look fine, and I've been blowing detritus off the mat, but what's grow with the GSP and how do I get the algae off the mat without hurting it?

 

[JumboShrimp]

It's probably still settling in, but I can see why you don't want the algae taking hold during the process. If blowing it isn't enough, how about going VERY gently with a soft toothbrush?

 

[Wakenbaker420]

Sometimes my GSP will stay closed for 3-6 days after a good feeding. I do see a brown film form once in awhile and I give the coral a gentle brushing with a toothbrush and its just fine. These guys are hardie and grow like a weed. Make sure to have on an island to keep control.

 

[Jekyl]

Food for thought... if placing GSP on a bare bottom tank, growing is your biggest concern. Eventually it will take over everything. That being said a list of parameters will be helpful.