new girl

Danielle Castro · Apr 7, 2016

We got our 55 gallon tank about a week ago from a friend. We are COMPLETELY new with reef tanks, any tank at that. We have it all set up exactly as they had it, and they gave us everything they had to care for the tank. There is now red algae forming on the side areas in the sand(it seems like it may have been just regular beach sand). FYI, when they had the tank set up it did not have the red algae. They had the tank next to a window, and as do I. I'm not sure what to do about the algae. I have 2 tiny crabs, 2 peppermint shrimp, and 2 chocolate chip starfish. Despite the million things I have already read, they all get along just fine. The algae is not noticeably effecting any of them right now. Is it something i need to worry about? I am in the process of getting a protein skimmer and am hoping that will help clear it up.

Also, if anyone has any suggestions on a cheap but good protein skimmer, leave me some links or names, please.

Anirban · Apr 7, 2016

Welcome to R2R....

Those red algae you are talking about possibly Cyano. So they are generally part of tanks cycling process and fuelled by nutrients like NO3 and PO4. So if you don't have corals just shut your lights for 2-3 days and it will go. Alternatively you can reduce your photoperiod or the time you keep your lights on. But get some basic testing kits for NO3, PO4 etc and test them regularly. If you keep those in check they will die off. Try to feed less and only the amount necessary.
For cheap good skimmer you can look at this although there are many more including hang on the back, in sump and in tank.....it depends how much you wish to spend and which type you prefer....generally an overrated skimmer is better
SC Aquariums SCA-301 Protein Skimmer, 65 gal
http://www.bulkreefsupply.com/reef-octopus-bh50-multi-mount-protein-skimmer.html

Colin Chaplin · Apr 7, 2016

Hi Danielle,Welcome, how old is the set up, when you say they had it set up by a window is it the same south facing, north facing window?.

twilliard · Apr 7, 2016

If it is cyanobacteria (red mat and O2 bubbles) it is tricky to handle.
The bacteria has the ability to survive in even the most nutrient free water

Anirban · Apr 7, 2016

@twilliard peroxide

Danielle Castro · Apr 7, 2016

Colin Chaplin said:
Hi Danielle,Welcome, how old is the set up, when you say they had it set up by a window is it the same south facing, north facing window?.

Not sure how old it is exactly. They had it facing west, i have it facing east.

Colin Chaplin · Apr 7, 2016

It not the best place to set up an aquarium near a window, if you have no choice then fair enough, it just could of started the algae growing being in a different direction getting more sunlight.

Danielle Castro · Apr 7, 2016

I was thinking next water change to empty out the sand that is there, as I do not know how old it is. I love how the live sand looks(its more fine then grainy like beach sand), but was told or read it may not be good for the tank. Ideas, opinions, what should I do about the sand?

I am also thinking in the best interest of keeping the tank cool and not in direct sunlight(the blinds stay closed anyway and in a cool area with AC) of putting the back paper. I think(from what i have researched) that may help reduce algae as well. I'm such a rookie. It was supposed to be my boyfriends tank, but i'm now stuck with it and actually really took interest to it.

twilliard · Apr 7, 2016

Anirban said:
@twilliard peroxide

Well yes

but didn't put that out there lol
But getting closer!

Colin Chaplin · Apr 7, 2016

Have you done some water test, temperature is ok etc.

Anirban · Apr 7, 2016

twilliard said:
Well yes but didn't put that out there lol
But getting closer!

Tried it during last outbreak and it worked like a charm.....

twilliard · Apr 7, 2016

Danielle Castro said:
I was thinking next water change to empty out the sand that is there, as I do not know how old it is. I love how the live sand looks(its more fine then grainy like beach sand), but was told or read it may not be good for the tank. Ideas, opinions, what should I do about the sand?

I am also thinking in the best interest of keeping the tank cool and not in direct sunlight(the blinds stay closed anyway and in a cool area with AC) of putting the back paper. I think(from what i have researched) that may help reduce algae as well. I'm such a rookie. It was supposed to be my boyfriends tank, but i'm now stuck with it and actually really took interest to it.

To get a good idea of the situation can you post up a picture?

twilliard · Apr 7, 2016

Anirban said:
Tried it during last outbreak and it worked like a charm.....

Oh yes.. ohh yes
This is what I like to hear!

Danielle Castro · Apr 7, 2016

Colin Chaplin said:
Have you done some water test, temperature is ok etc.

Yes, I have a temp gauge. Water is perfect. Also have a water heater that came with everything. I don't have the testing kit for nitrates, phosphates, etc. just yet. Its on my list along with a protein skimmer. For right this moment i'm just hoping i'm not missing anything super duper important.

Danielle Castro · Apr 7, 2016

twilliard said:
To get a good idea of the situation can you post up a picture?

The moment I get home I will post pictures.

Danielle Castro · Apr 7, 2016

You guys are all awesome and very knowledgeable. I greatly thank you!
I got some more questions for you guys.

1) I have the bottom filtration tank (that of course all circulates) and have green algae in it we bought. What type of light should i use so it can grow?
2) Should I leave a blue light on at night in the top tank so its not so dark? My other friend does(what are the benefits?). Or just turn it off. I do have live coral in the tank.
3)Are all LED lights the same? I'm not sure if those submersible lights would function the same as the ones you don't submerge. I was told they are more for decor then providing light to the tank.

I really want the best for the tank, and would like to keep it all alive.

I looked at one like this to put on the bottom where the green algae is.:
http://www.amazon.com/LEMONBEST-pow...ue&ref_=ox_sc_act_title_2&smid=A1I8ZH8EHJ6J6O

And considered a light like this for the top tank:
http://www.amazon.com/Mingdak-Aquarium-Light-Tanks-12-Inch/dp/B00X84LSBU?ie=UTF8&keywords=led blue fish tank light&qid=1460053158&ref_=sr_1_3&sr=8-3

Colin Chaplin · Apr 7, 2016

Hi, Expect to pay a lot for good lighting for your saltwater environment. Remember that you are attempting to recreate the habitat of the corals and invertebrates that are living there. They rely on photosynthesis to meet their nutritional needs, consequently, proper lighting is essential to the health of your reef. The depth and volume of your tank will also be important factors to keep in mind when choosing lighting. A more intense light will be needed to effectively illuminate a deeper tank.

ou12004 · Apr 7, 2016

Not sure what your local reef club is, but you should check that forum for some used equipment. Skimmers, and LEDs are usually always for sale on mine for a fraction of what they go for new.

There are some reefers who always want the newest model, even when there was nothing wrong with the old one

120reefkeeper · Apr 7, 2016

Danielle Castro · Apr 7, 2016

Theres the pictures of what the tank is looking like. The red algae is growing alot. I am going to move the tank later. I am highly concerned of the sun light hitting it too harshly.

It is dtill a little disorganized but im taking care of all that and some this evening.