Tan-colored Algae?

[Pamela]

My tank is 27 days old, and there is suddenly a tan-colored algae (or something) covering the base rocks and it's even appearing on the surface of the sand. Please let me know whether this is normal. Thanks so much!

 

[Jmas4]

Can i have a picture. It could be diatoms. All new tanks have them but a picture would help a lot. :D

 

[Pamela]

I'm not seeing how to take a picture. I don't see the tiny camera symbol anywhere.

 

[dbl]

More than likely diatoms, but a picture would help. You can upload a picture by hitting the upload a file button right under the text block. Or you can link them to a third party site like Photobucket or others.

 

[chrishtown7755]

I agree with dbl. normal diatoms that occur during a cycle . the algae will eventually starve itself just wait It out

 

[Pamela]

Thanks! I looked up diatoms and it sure looks like what I have going on. I wondered when some form of algae would manifest itself. Should I take each rock out and try to scrub it off, or will that disturbance upset my fishes more than being helpful?

 

[Techie_]

Nope, it will go away almost as fast as it showed up, happens to every tank!

 

[Pamela]

Thanks! That's very encouraging.