Is this normal for 'diatoms'

[ILikeVoltron]

Sorry about cross-posting this, but basically after 50 views and no responses, I don't think anybody noticed my post dirty gravel (all the way at the bottom)

QUOTE (Bol @ May 14 2004, 04:49 PM)

The first thing I'd check with the gravel is, is the new brown color kind of a slimy coating, that rubs off easily?

If so, what you most likely have is an outbreak of diatoms (sometimes called 'diatom algae'). It's pretty common in newer tanks (I usually see it in my tanks about ... four to seven weeks after cycling is complete). Also happens in low-light tanks.

It's not harmful to the fish, and usually goes away without any intervention as the tank matures, in my experience. Also, otos like to munch it off of rocks and glass -- not sure about gravel, though.

About the snail, were the bloodworms live?
Also, if you put any live plants in the tank, chances are good that's where the snail came from (eggs on the plants).

A few snails can be beneficial, but too many can be a hassle, in my opinion. If you do have a couple of snails (I'm assuming they're the plain old 'pond snails'), they'll be a sure-fire indicator if you're overfeeding your fish. If you overfeed, chances are you'll fairly suddenly see that you have dozens and dozens of snails.

I've got the same problem with the Alge. Its just as you describe it 'diatoms.' Although I've had it for quite some time now, several months in fact. I am starting to get a little worried about it as I have no started buying water from a shop that uses RO water. I was using tap water at first (the local water is pretty clean) then I started using bottled water, and now the Shops water.

I've also tested for phosphates, pH and salinity, all testing fine. How long will it take now to get rid of this stuff?

My tank -- 29 Gallons, "Compact fluorescent 65watt BLUE JBJ" and "Compact fluorescent 65watt DAYLIGHT JBJ", got some 'substraight in a bag', and about 20lbs of liverock in there right now. I'm using the Emperor 200 or 280 hang on filter, with a single power head.

Also, the 'diatoms' completly cover my rock and I can even see small air bubbles forming under it, and under some of the substraight.

Please help

 

[BettaBabe]

I have the same problem with my litt 2 gallon tank. Maybe we should get otos?

Well, my tank's too small for those...

BB

 

[ILikeVoltron]

I wonder if that would be a good idea for me? I mean, the stuff just won't go away, I guess it might be because I was using crappy water for so long, but geeze.. I just don't know

 

[BettaBabe]

http/www.otocinclus.com/feeding.html

By this website dedicated to otos theyu'll have it cleared up in a few days.

BB

 

[luxum]

You say you have live rock? Is this a marine tank? If so, no otos for you, and you should post this in the saltwater section as techniques are different in FW versus SW.

 

[ILikeVoltron]

edit: posted in another board