I am new to the hobby. I tried to do research, but cannot identify if my tank is in bad shape. Here's a quick timeliness of my experience.
Purchased tank, along with boxed premade saltwater, a bag of sand that contains beneficial bacteria, 2 life rocks, filter, skimmer, heater and wave pump.
Against all recommendations, after 2 days of cycling, I added 2 clownfish. 2 days after that I added a hermit crab, tiger conch snail and cleaner shrimp. I know this is not ideal at all.
I have been testing the conditions daily, and controlling ammonia spike with water changes. My ammonia never got above 2ppm before the nitrifying batlcteria started working well.
The ammonia level has now stabilized at almost zero, however the nitrite and nitrate levels have spiked. (ALOT). I have managed to keep under control with x2 30% water changes a week.
I am 3 weeks into it now, and I noticed orangeish/red spots forming on my life rocks about 3 days ago. Within 3 days it has spread through my entire tank, all over the sand, all over the rocks. At first I was convinced this was coralline. But now I am concerned this is cyanobacteria. See the pic.
I am looking for someone to help guide me in the right direction on what to do next. This site seems to have a bunch of great passionate hobbiest/professionals I can learn alot from.
I appreciate anyone who takes the time to read and respond to this post. I am genuinely grateful.
Purchased tank, along with boxed premade saltwater, a bag of sand that contains beneficial bacteria, 2 life rocks, filter, skimmer, heater and wave pump.
Against all recommendations, after 2 days of cycling, I added 2 clownfish. 2 days after that I added a hermit crab, tiger conch snail and cleaner shrimp. I know this is not ideal at all.
I have been testing the conditions daily, and controlling ammonia spike with water changes. My ammonia never got above 2ppm before the nitrifying batlcteria started working well.
The ammonia level has now stabilized at almost zero, however the nitrite and nitrate levels have spiked. (ALOT). I have managed to keep under control with x2 30% water changes a week.
I am 3 weeks into it now, and I noticed orangeish/red spots forming on my life rocks about 3 days ago. Within 3 days it has spread through my entire tank, all over the sand, all over the rocks. At first I was convinced this was coralline. But now I am concerned this is cyanobacteria. See the pic.
I am looking for someone to help guide me in the right direction on what to do next. This site seems to have a bunch of great passionate hobbiest/professionals I can learn alot from.
I appreciate anyone who takes the time to read and respond to this post. I am genuinely grateful.