When should I start trying for Coraline?

[capito2007]

When should I seed for coraline algae? My tank is newly cycled and I’m introducing my first fish today.
TIA

 

[TheDragonsReef]

After your diatom bloom is over and you can hold steady alkalinity calcium and magnesium. Ive had some tanks grow it as early as 2months in once introduced.

 

[capito2007]

So I shouldn’t seed? Just let it happen in its own time?

 

[TheDragonsReef]

If youre in a rush to make the tank look pink/purple seeding is the fastest way. But i wouldn't rush it as it also adds alot more maintenance and makes it slightly harder to maintain alk/cal/mg levels as the coraline will begin uptaking them. You have to regularly scrap it off the glass and clean wavemakers and pumps with citric acid to get it off.

 

[capito2007]

If youre in a rush to make the tank look pink/purple seeding is the fastest way. But i wouldn't rush it as it also adds alot more maintenance and makes it slightly harder to maintain alk/cal/mg levels as the coraline will begin uptaking them. You have to regularly scrap it off the glass and clean wavemakers and pumps with citric acid to get it off.

Sounds like I don’t want it . It’s rather vital for coral growth tho, isn’t it? Or is it just more of an indicator you’re ready for coral?

 

[thonis]

So I shouldn’t seed? Just let it happen in its own time?

Coraline Growth is the result of stability, Specifically Alk, PH, Salinity, temp, calcium, bio load, etc. is consistent for a few months. Coraline is the result of this, and will be a sign that you are on the right track to maturity.

 

[TheDragonsReef]

Sounds like I don’t want it . It’s rather vital for coral growth tho, isn’t it? Or is it just more of an indicator you’re ready for coral?

Nope you dont need it at all. It just comes with a stable tank environment and is a good sign of the tanks health. If you're growing coraline chances are you can grow most coral.

 

[landlubber]

well like the others have mentioned coraline is a result of proper growing conditions so in reality you should always be pushing for stability and a good growing environment.
as for seeding it, not necessary at all.