Unknown Algae Growth

[Bethany97]

Hello all,

I'm new to SW tanks and I've had a sudden growth of algae on some of my LR and wanted to get an opinion on it to make sure I don't need to change anything in my tank.

The rock in the front of my tank in the picture was completely white (like the rock in the back of my tank with the Zoas) two days ago, but it has rapidly grown this yellow-brown color the past few days. I've also noticed a TON of little bubbles in my tank, which I believe is from photosynthesis of some type. (It could be protein build up, but I try to take care to not over feed my tank.)

About a week ago I introduced the LR with the yellow star polyps so I'm guessing that is what has caused the growth, since the rock came in with that abundance of algae that you can see. Also, my tank is a very new one. It has been fully cycled for about two weeks now.

 

[twilliard]

I am unable to say what algae that is but I will put a word of caution out.
Please be aware that any nuisance bacteria or dinoflagellates are introduced into our systems.
You are correct that forming o2 bubbles are typically a byproduct of Photosynthesis

 

[jeremybrown92283]

I would suggest checkin phosphates and nitrates. Are they high? You could be catching it before it spreads it to the rest of the tank? If nitrates are above 10 or 20 and phosphates are high as well try doing a water change to reduce the algaes food.

 

[jeremybrown92283]

You could also take that piece out and scrub with a old toothbrush. If you reduce the nitrates and phosphates for a few days it comes off easier assuming its algae kinda hardbto tell from picd

 

[Bethany97]

Thanks for the advice guys, after doing a little more searching I believe it's a diatom bloom. I'll be doing some water changes, reducing light, and see what happens from there!