I'm fairly new to saltwater. Ive had my 8 gallon since last november. Started it early November. I have the sand type gravel. Everything I get is from a well established fish store. I have this red slim on the sand and glass. I was told to reduce lighting to 8 hours a day. Is there anything else I can do to stop it? Thanks.
Red film
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Red slime is most likely cyanobacteria. How often and how much are you doing for water changes and are you using RO/DI for your water changes?
I do about a gallon of water every 2 weeks. I have a powerhead and the filtration system on the back. I'm not sure about the sand cleaning. Ive read to leave it alone. I use Distilled water sometimes when the level is low. I have a refractometer and check the water about 3 times a week and the salinity is in the correct range. I have hermit and emerald crabs. Plus some snails. Not sure what RO/DI is.
Nutrients is the problem. I'm battling(beating back with a stick) the same thing in my tank. On a 8g nano, I would suggest to increase water changes, stop using pellet and flake food, decrease amount fed, and maybe use some chemi pure or other chemical media such as carbon and gfo to help remove nutrients.
I wouldn't mess with your sand and just get a few nassarius snails. They'll keep it clean for you. Yes, carbon and gfo have to be changed out. How often depends on how much media you're using and how dirty the tank is. More food going in the tank will deplete the media faster.
What do you have in the back of the tank now? I'm assuming its an all in one with the filter section in the back?
The first tank is always an experiment, then every tank after that... it's a constant learning experience. You're going to mess up, and kill coral. Everyone does. Stick with it and stay on top of maintenance and if you have problems, someone is always here to help.
For now, I would change/clean your mechanical filter(sock, floss, sponge, pad) twice a week. Carbon is likely good for a month or so.
For now, I would change/clean your mechanical filter(sock, floss, sponge, pad) twice a week. Carbon is likely good for a month or so.
Picked this up today for phosphates.
Also got chemo clean for the filter. Had some and didn't know it. So have 2 packs of it.
Do I put 1 or 2 of them in the basket?
I changed out the screen on it also. Got some more live rock and a star fish that hurries itself in the sand and eats all the crud.
Also got chemo clean for the filter. Had some and didn't know it. So have 2 packs of it.
Do I put 1 or 2 of them in the basket?
I changed out the screen on it also. Got some more live rock and a star fish that hurries itself in the sand and eats all the crud.
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