Show Frag Tank Cloudy

[Luke Schnabel]

I had my second ever frag swap setup and my tanks water was cloudy by the time the swap started.
I used brand new saltwater that was mixed two days before the show. I did not put any of the water in the tank from the transportation containers. I had a small bag of carbon in the overflow.
I don’t understand how the water got cloudy but I would like to avoid it for my next show. Does anyone have some tips or tricks to avoid this?
Someone recommended Dr Tim’s Refresh once I get everything set up.

 

[ZoWhat]

I don't have a specific answer but do know a few reasons why SW can get cloudy: (not a complete list)

- smthg has forced calcium and carbonate to quickly bond, like pouring a 2part solution together in one dose

- algae bacteria bloom

- LPS, especially amemones spawning

- chemical warfare btwn competing corals.....that slime up and release chemicals in the SW as an offensive move or a defensive protection

- rapid change in temp. Temp swing of 10degree or more happening quickly

 

[mcarroll]

Ammonia/nutrients have to go somewhere....and waterborne bacteria might be the only consumers in a bare tank like that.

There are lots of new-tank-start/bacteria-in-a-bottle products that should prevent it – BioSpira, et al. Pick your favorite. :)

 

[Luke Schnabel]

It could be a mix of rapid temp change and coral stress/war. I had to heat up up from about 60 to 78 in under an hr. And the coral in transport were all jammed close together.

Has anyone use any starter bacteria in their show frag tanks for swaps?