What is this and what do I do about it?

[BryanM]

So the tank is fairly new, was cycled with live rock (from gulf live rock), nitrites and ammonia were 0, nitrates 4.6, ph is 8.18.

We added 3 corals and 2 cleaner shrimp Saturday, and today I noticed this:

Prior to the additions the tank was spotless. The corals were dipped before they were put in the tank.

 

[Reefering1]

What are we looking at?

 

[jabberwock]

Can you point out what you are concerned about?

 

[BryanM]

Can you point out what you are concerned about?

The discoloration on the top of the sand and whatever is growing in the corner on the glass. Its orange/brown, and very new.

 

[jabberwock]

The discoloration on the top of the sand and whatever is growing in the corner on the glass. Its orange/brown, and very new.

That's algae. Do you have a glass scraper? It is likely gonna get worse. I wouldn't worry about it. Just clean it off once in a while. It is part of the deal.

 

[jabberwock]

Here I was after a week long vacation...

And after...

 

[FUNGI]

welcome to the uglies.......

 

[BristleWormHater]

Magnetic algae scraper as for the sand bed get something like this Gravel vac

 

[jabberwock]

welcome to the uglies.......

I would not even call that the uglies, that is just a little bit of film algae on the glass...

 

[FUNGI]

I would not even call that the uglies, that is just a little bit of film algae on the glass...

True.....beauty is in the eyes of the beholder.....

 

[jabberwock]

I have 2 scrapers. One is Tunze with a metal blade for big jobs. You have to be careful not to damage your seams with the metal blade. Then I have a standard velcro one for light cleanings...

 

[BryanM]

I realize it isn't that bad, I was just wanting to know what it is, and what to do about it, in hopes that I can keep it from getting actually ugly

 

[FUNGI]

I would get a clean up crew in there now as they have something to eat......

 

[jabberwock]

I realize it isn't that bad, I was just wanting to know what it is, and what to do about it, in hopes that I can keep it from getting actually ugly

You did yourself a huge favor going with real ocean live rock! I doubt you ever see the uglies. Can we get a full tank shot?

 

[BryanM]

I would get a clean up crew in there now as they have something to eat......

Any suggestions, considering I won't have a lid for the aquarium for another month, and I definitely don't want jumpers dying on the floor!

 

[jabberwock]

Any suggestions, considering I won't have a lid for the aquarium for another month, and I definitely don't want jumpers dying on the floor!

Cerith snails, virgin nerite snails, limpets if you can find them

 

[ScottJ]

I realize it isn't that bad, I was just wanting to know what it is, and what to do about it, in hopes that I can keep it from getting actually ugly

Algae is really a good thing in a new tank. It is a signal that LIFE is taking hold!

Some snails and a glass scraper will take care of it.

 

[BryanM]

two tank shots, one white, the other with the LEDs.

 

[BryanM]

I have a medium size clean up crew coming tomorrow!

 

[BryanM]

Medium CUC is doing their job quite well.

Man, snails move.