What. Is. Going. On.! :(

[Acro]

I'm having some problems with bubble algae in my tank. I can't suck it out as it's in places I can't reach, also emerald crab is out of the question.

I have never has measurable nitrates or phosphates and only recently got some algae issues. I have attached some pictures for some of you all to look at, if you see anything wrong it'll be great to know!

I'm contemplating getting an algae scrubber to help out with the extra whatever is in the tank. I do weekly water changes, and lately 3 a week.

 

[Acro]

Last picture is glue btw... And the algae is clear on it and wavy.

 

[mcarroll]

How old is the tank, and how long has the bio-load been stable (no additions/deaths/removals/etc)?

Looks like the corals have been growing, so the bioload has been growing at least in that aspect.

Also looks like you're having a cyano outbreak. Is there less of this algae after the lights have been off all night?

If you haven't been feeding more, nothing's been added to the tank, nothing is missing....I'd check the sand and rocks (sump, et al) for detritus, plus I might suspect your RODI water.

BTW, unless your system is really overfed, bubble algae doesn't usually spread fast....it's actually my favorite algae to have. An old german saltwater book I have refers to it as "a jewel of the aquarium". LOL. In any event, I wouldn't take any action against it specifically unless it happens to be encroaching on, and bothering, a coral. It will disappear once you solve the root problem.

-Matt