Explosive algae growth in 2 week old tank

[Saltybubbles288]

I have been running this system for 2 weeks with base rock and a very small piece of live rock, with nothing then within hours of the last time I looked out of nowhere I have noticed algae everywhere even visibly on the glass. It's even creating microbubbles a a surprisingly fast rate. I've never seen anything like it in a freshwater system. I'm assuming it's just part of the cycle but would like to know for sure. And maybe slow it down as I said it is even on the glass. I am still waiting on my saltwater test kits to come in the mail so I can't post the params

 

[kashman100]

Just normal part of the uglies. You can turn off your lights while cycling the tank

 

[Saltybubbles288]

Glad to hear it. It was just so fast. I probably should shut my lights off, the blue is just so mesmerizing.

 

[saltyfilmfolks]

You should seriously consider starting The snails and cuc imo.

 

[Saltybubbles288]

You should seriously consider starting The snails and cuc imo.

I was just about to look that exact thing up when this post was already open on my phone. I would love to add some Snails when I get the sand tomorrow but would the Snails be able to handle the upcoming spikes in nitrite and nitrate from the cycle?

 

[saltyfilmfolks]

With luck you have a lfs close so you can add slowly over the next several weeks, but if your that far along it's an ok sign.

https://www.reef2reef.com/threads/choosing-cleanup-crew-critters.258695/#post-3063945

 

[Saltybubbles288]

Yeah I've got a few nearby including SB Reefs. I'll pick up a snail or two tomorrow my test kits should be here soon so I'll test them then and go from there. It's just so fast the tank has only been running 2 weeks but i started with an established protienskimmer oddly enough. Maybe it boosted the cycle.

 

[saltyfilmfolks]

There's some live rock in there or some of that rock wasn't very dead.

 

[Saltybubbles288]

I got the "base rock" out a system that a failed about a month prior but sat in a tub with saltwater up until 2 days before I picked it up. And put .3 lb piece of live rock in to seed the coralline

 

[Saltybubbles288]

@saltyfilmfolks Most of the Snails are doing pretty well, I'll have to add more soon they are doing their jobs but they are fighting an up hill battle. Thanks for the advice it's nice to see a bit of life in here.