Nano Red Turf Algae Issue

[J_Reef]

Hello Everyone,

I’ve been having a battle with what appears to be a wiry, clumpy, red turf algae for quite a while now in my nano tank. Parameters appear to be fine with nitrates around 2-3 ppm and phosphate around 0.05. I’ve been manually removing but can only get so much out, especially with how strong it is attached to my rock work.

I’ve seen mixed opinions on cuc options ranging from urchins to turbo snails. I currently have some trochus snails and blue hermits. I’ve also seen various chemical options like peroxide and fluconazole. I just want to hear some opinions and experiences as to what works the best with a nano tank in mind.

Any advice or experience would be greatly appreciated!

 

[Quietman]

I wouldn't go the chemical route unless you're ready to throw in the towel completely and willing to risk the tank. It's a valid option at that point and I've done it, but be aware chemical treatments (algaecides) are drastic and sometimes can be very difficult and time consuming for your tank to recover and can lead to follow on issues. Again, if you're ready to quit what've you got to lose.

If you're not there yet, then go with the cuc. Providing other algae that can help outcompete the turf algae for available nutrients in from of refugium, ats or just some decorative algae in the tank but nano's are space limited.

If you can get the cuc and your manual removal to keep it down to a few clumps that grow in the same place that you can easily remove once a week, that's a win.

 

[J_Reef]

I wouldn't go the chemical route unless you're ready to throw in the towel completely and willing to risk the tank. It's a valid option at that point and I've done it, but be aware chemical treatments (algaecides) are drastic and sometimes can be very difficult and time consuming for your tank to recover and can lead to follow on issues. Again, if you're ready to quit what've you got to lose.

If you're not there yet, then go with the cuc. Providing other algae that can help outcompete the turf algae for available nutrients in from of refugium, ats or just some decorative algae in the tank but nano's are space limited.

If you can get the cuc and your manual removal to keep it down to a few clumps that grow in the same place that you can easily remove once a week, that's a win.

Ok that makes sense. What cuc would you recommend?

 

[Quietman]

I've always like astraea snails. I've seen others recommend green emerald crabs but I've never trusted any crabs but blue and red leg hermit to not go after corals. Your turbos are good too.

I've never wanted an urchin in my tank but have heard great with algae. Also great an knocking stuff over.

You can also adjust lighting intensity and spectrum. Perhaps darken a few days before getting the astraea (or whatever you decide to get) to weaken the algae.

If you do end up going with algaecide product there are many threads on here on how to best use without nuking your tank.