New Cycle - Brown Water?

[Daniel91]

Hello there!

I’ve previously cycled tanks fishless but not really experienced this until something similar much later in process where I knew it could be bactarial bloom.

Now, four days after kickstarting my cycle with regular fish food (flakes), I am experiencing brownish or some tintish water, what could that be?

It’s only dry rock (Caribsea). Used RODI, 78 temp, salinity 1.025 and tropic Marin salt. Was totally clear for the first few days, then this happen.

Any ideas?

 

[Daniel91]

I’m thinking the brownish tint may also come from decaying organic matter (the flakes), some of which are still at the bottom of tank.. could be logical explanation

 

[Dom]

What is your water source? Did you use Tap water or RODI?

 

[Mr. Mojo Rising]

its hard to tell if the return is on? Is there any flow, or just sitting stagnant? Brown water has never been a part of my cycles.

 

[Daniel91]

What is your water source? Did you use Tap water or RODI?

RODI, 0-1TDS

 

[Daniel91]

its hard to tell if the return is on? Is there any flow, or just sitting stagnant? Brown water has never been a part of my cycles.

That’s true - it’s on. Water is flowing through just fine, noticed when I was mixing salt into it.

 

[Mr. Mojo Rising]

how much flakes did you use to start? I assume its the coloring in the flakes......

 

[Daniel91]

how much flakes did you use to start? I assume its the coloring in the flakes......

I think so too - it was more than a pinch but I still see some decaying on floor, so could def be it.