Identify algae and solution

[Mac01]

Hi -
I have a new reef tank that is about 5 months old.
Currently a (4) fish only tank with inverts.
No corals
I used live sand, but not live rocks.
I have not seeded any coralline algae spores. There are a few picture that seems to have purple on the rocks (so unclear if it made it in somehow).

Goal is to grow coralline algae - but seem to have green algae problem.

Can someone please help identify what this green algae is and what I can do - I can turn off lights if needed. I noticed the green algae sometimes turn black or looks to even turn white as parts of rock used to be green, then white.

Thanks

 

[TX_REEF]

Green algae like that is super super common in new (less than 1 year old) new tanks and not generally a cause for concern. I'd recommend keeping an eye on your water chemistry to ensure nitrate and phosphate stay under control, and add a cleanup crew to keep it under control as well. Trochus snails are my favorite, they are relentless algae eaters and can breed in our tanks.

 

[Sophie"s mom]

I agree with TX_REEF! Just new tank algae, nothing to worry about at all. But a good CUC will help make sure things do not get out of control. I like cerith snails as well as trochus, they are both great for algae.

 

[Mac01]

Thanks for the advice.

What type of snails would work as I already have Trochus and crabs, and a fire shrimp.

Any other suggestions would be great.

I've also reduced feeding and shut off the light, but the light is something that can't be permanent once I add Corals.