inverts

[DS5000]

new tank 5wks in (45gal RS 170), i have a few fish, no corals yet, planning on mixed reef eventually.
No algae seen.
Id like to add CUC of emerald crab and some snails, maybe a shrimp - when should I add them? Now to help prevent algae growth, or let tank continue to mature?
thx

 

[Oropher]

It's best to add CUC when actually there's something to be cleaned.

You cannot prevent algae to not to grow at all. It's part of tank maturity.

 

[PicassoClown04]

If you’re 5 weeks in I’m guessing you’re seeing some algae? In a tank that size I’d start with 3-4 snails (astraea or cerith are my favorites from the LFS) and a large shrimp (peppermint, skunk, fire, etc). It’s easier to make sure your shrimp gets fed then trying to make sure a bunch of little hermits get fed. Just making sure, your tank is cycled right?

 

[DS5000]

thanks footgal, yes tank cycled. Not seeing any algae yet......

 

[vetteguy53081]

Spply when a natural food source is present- diatom and algae but don’t wait for it to reach hair algae stage