Think I have Dino starting

[Mattgee]

Hi

not sure if I have the start of Dino or even cyano.

Tank is 4 months old, current levels are below

Not sure if it’s the dreaded “ugly stage” currently dosing 6 ml vibrant weekly and think of stepping that up to 6 ml every 3/4 days. Just looking for any other advice or pointers.

Thanks

 

[ChgoGoodGirl]

Is there a reason why you're dosing vibrant? How big us your tank? What kind of CUC do you have?

 

[Fishy212]

Up the flow in those areas with a power head or manually blow with turkey baster and remove any unwanted material with a siphon. You will have to fight through it.... patience

 

[Mattgee]

Is there a reason why you're dosing vibrant? How big us your tank? What kind of CUC do you have?

I have been dosing vibrant weekly since I started the tank up. Is there a reason why I shouldn’t be? I thought it was a recognised method towards helping keep the sand clean.
its a 255 litre tank with a 44 litre sump. I have around 7 hermit crabs and 10 snails. Looking to add some trouchus snails this weekend too.

 

[ChgoGoodGirl]

IMO dosing anything into your tank that you can't test for is or can be a problem. Especially in the beginning stages of a tank. you're clean up crew is way too small. 10 hermits are probably enough but no where near enough snails. Here is a link to a great online site that sells clean up crews to give you an idea of how many you need, what type and how each species will benefit your tank. https://reefcleaners.org/index.php?...mart_product_id=249&virtuemart_category_id=20

In the meantime - stop dosing and do a 5gl water change every few days. See if that helps a bit.

 

[Fishy212]

With or without vibrant, you will have to go through the ugly phases.
Totally agree with Chgogoodgirl. 5 -10 gallon water changes every couple of days and add to your existing CUC. I have a sand sifting goby and it does wonders for sand bed health and movement. Good luck .