Hi, I have a 50G mbuna tank setup with rocks, wood and sand substrate. My problem is that I keep getting really strong algae growths in my sand and a lot of trapped air. It looks like nice health green algae so shouldn't cause health problems but around my rocks the growths are really bad red algae. Is this as bad for my fish as I think and how do I stop it all re-occurring?
Shane
Members
Could you post a picture? It would help a lot.
-Shane
-Shane
scientist0724
Members
If you don't have plants, turn down the amount of light. Algae won't hurt your fish, and if you don't mind the look of the algae, then it should not be a problem.
Trapped air in the substrate though is a problem.
Arlene
Trapped air in the substrate though is a problem.
Arlene
scientist0724
Members
Trapped air could be a result of gasses trapped in the sand from anaerobic bacteria. If they escape into the tank before they dissipate, they could kill the fish and it STINKS!
I would suggest getting some MTS to dig into the sand and that your layer of sand not be more than two inches deep.
Arlene
I would suggest getting some MTS to dig into the sand and that your layer of sand not be more than two inches deep.
Arlene
Tony
Alligator Snapping Turtle/Past Pres
Sounds like that blue/green slime algae... sort of like cyanobacteria in a reef tank. I hate both.
Reduce light and nutrients in the water and try to vacuum as much out as you can.
Reduce light and nutrients in the water and try to vacuum as much out as you can.
Tony
Alligator Snapping Turtle/Past Pres
MTS = Malaysian Trumpet Snails
Shane
Members
That was why I asked for a pic. Treating cyanobacteria is a lot different than algae.
-Shane
