Should I use Microalgae?

[Hamsnacks]

Wondering if there is a point in adding Chaeto to my sump.
It would have to be in the same chamber as my protein skimmer, which isn't too bad as it would keep the Chaeto moving.

From what I read Chaeto will help remove excess Nitrates, however what if I already have low Nitrates and plan on having more coral. I don't feed the fish much.

Would it be a negative affect in adding Microalgae as it'll take away from the Coral. Or it's still beneficial to have?

Asking before I go out and buy a bulb, clamp and cut an opening in my cover for the light.

Thank you

 

[AdamB]

If your nitrates and system are doing well I would not add . Why fix something that’s not broken . Perhaps later on if you add more fish or want to do less water changes ?
I had a bad experience with putting chaeto in my first refugium earlier this year . It made my tank to efficient on nutrient export and causing 00 po3 and no3 which caused my sps to bleach and die . Lost about $200 worth . Anyway . Toughest ordeal I’ve been through trying to raise my nutrient levels .
I ended up adding more fish and pulled most of my chaeto out .

 

[sixty_reefer]

Same as above if you got nutrients under control is not worth the hassle. If you ever feel the need to add something look at siporax also

 

[Redfoxtang]

In your case I wouldn’t add algae if you have low nutrients already. In fact if your nutrients are really low already I would turn the skimmer off and increase feedings and then monitor your nutrient levels. Could even put the skimmer on a timer.

 

[lapin]

All of the above.
Plus you have the normal warfare between competing organisms.
Macro algae, like corals, give off toxins that discourage other things from growing close to them.