Snot-Looking Slime in Cycling Tank

[DentistReefer413]

My tank is currently cycling - set up 10 days ago with dry rock and CaribSea Live Sand, began using Dr. Tim's One and Only 8 days ago.

Is this stringy slime anything to be concerned about? I've never seen it in my previous tank setups. It is only on the filter sock, and re-appears each time I take it out to clean it. It's no bother to me, and doesn't show up in the display...

I'm assuming it's part of the bacteria associated with the cycle, so I'm not sure if removing it is the right idea at this point. Any suggestions?

 

[Kaludar]

My tank is currently cycling - set up 10 days ago with dry rock and CaribSea Live Sand, began using Dr. Tim's One and Only 8 days ago.

Is this stringy slime anything to be concerned about? I've never seen it in my previous tank setups. It is only on the filter sock, and re-appears each time I take it out to clean it. It's no bother to me, and doesn't show up in the display...

I'm assuming it's part of the bacteria associated with the cycle, so I'm not sure if removing it is the right idea at this point. Any suggestions?

You shouldn't really have a filter sock in during your cycle to begin with to my knowledge. I didn't run my skimmer or any mechanical filtration at all until my cycle was complete.

 

[Retro Reefer]

It’s bacteria and should pass once your bio filtration is established.

 

[Brew12]

It's bacteria, but not related to the cycle. You should be able to cycle the tank without this forming. It's normally a sign that you have a carbon source feeding a bacterial bloom. The most common causes are air fresheners and candles, paint, and cleaning supplies. One of the more interesting sources was from a batch of homemade beer that was fermenting.

A more mature tank has other sources for these carbons to be consumed so if it is confined to your filter socks I wouldn't worry about it for now as it will likely clear up on its own. If it starts spreading then you may need to try and find the carbon source and also ensure you have good air exchange in your tank. These bacteria blooms can strip the oxygen from a tank fairly quickly if they get large.

As for running filter socks/skimmers, I don't find that it matters. I ran both when I cycled my system because I wanted the cycle to be completed in situation as close to how I intended to run my tank as possible. The nitrifying bacteria don't care and it was good practice for me prior to getting livestock.

 

[DentistReefer413]

Thank y'all! We do light candles in the home - I've had other tanks set up the past few years, but maybe this tank is reacting differently... I remember (years ago) painting a room on the other side of the house and my skimmer went nuts.
Regardless, thank you for the input. I'll likely leave everything alone currently, while keeping an eye on the amount of bacterial 'slime' and act accordingly if necessary. I appreciate the input!