Hey all. I setup a macro algae reactor about 6 weeks ago for my 12 gallon FOWLR tank. It's my first saltwater tank I was given about 2 years ago and so far been using it to learn more about the hobby before getting a larger one and diving into corals. Occupants include 1 clown, 1 orchid dottyback, yellow watchman/pistol pair, tuxedo urchin and a few hermits and snails.
First 4 weeks things went as expected - during which I had two clean outs with good growth and reduced nutrient count. Today (3rd cleanup) I found a slimy mess in the reactor. Only thing I have done different is I introduced amphipods and the urchin after the last reactor clean out ~2 weeks ago, both ordered from Algaebarn. Light schedules are also unchanged. I run my reactor lights opposite to the DT lights. I haven't done any water changes in 5 months.. only replaced small water losses during reactor clean outs. My phosphates are ~10ppm and nitrates are zero (API tests - I know get a better brand test). Phosphates went up a little as they were zero 2 weeks ago. Salinity right at 1.024 based on my refractometer.
I can only think of 2 reasons for the slime: nutrients too low (unlikely since I continue to see a little GHA in the tank) or somehow the pods screwed things up.
Any thoughts would be great. Thank you!
First 4 weeks things went as expected - during which I had two clean outs with good growth and reduced nutrient count. Today (3rd cleanup) I found a slimy mess in the reactor. Only thing I have done different is I introduced amphipods and the urchin after the last reactor clean out ~2 weeks ago, both ordered from Algaebarn. Light schedules are also unchanged. I run my reactor lights opposite to the DT lights. I haven't done any water changes in 5 months.. only replaced small water losses during reactor clean outs. My phosphates are ~10ppm and nitrates are zero (API tests - I know get a better brand test). Phosphates went up a little as they were zero 2 weeks ago. Salinity right at 1.024 based on my refractometer.
I can only think of 2 reasons for the slime: nutrients too low (unlikely since I continue to see a little GHA in the tank) or somehow the pods screwed things up.
Any thoughts would be great. Thank you!