What kinda algae is this?

[Sunday101]

So for the past while I've had this type of algae on my rocks with string like stuff coming out of it and around it. Kinda looks like hair algae but not sure haven't seen it like this before. I've been using microbacter clean and using a toothbrush on the rocks to clean as much as I can but im trying to identify the type it could be and what can help with removing it. The green is a pain to remove and I barley am able to get it off. I have used chemiclean in the past a few months ago and didn't seem like it did anything. I always do water changes weekly too. Any help is appreciated.

 

[Fish Fan]

I'm sorry you're having some trouble with algae!

I'm not an expert, but that looks like fairly typical green film algae, with maybe some green hair algae as well. New tanks will often go through an 'ugly phase" of different algae, it should pass on its own in time.

Personally, I'd discontinue the use of the Microbacter product. I don't think adding additional bacteria to a running tank is worthwhile. This is a case where I believe these products are largely "snake oil" and not necessary.

I think you're doing the right things; try to brush it off and siphon it out. Double check that your nitrate and phosphate are not elevated. Water changes are always a good idea, in my humble opinion.

Good luck!

 

[Mr. Mojo Rising]

I agree just typical algae on new rocks. Start adding some more snails as the algae increases, and keep on eye on the nutrients, don't let them get out of control. Don't feed more than the fish can eat in about 30-60 seconds, uneaten food in the water will fuel algae growth. Keep up with weekly water changes. with good husbandry you can coast through the ugly stage

 

[Fish Fan]

Yes, a CUC would be a good addition as well! Great advice from @Mr. Mojo Rising above.

 

[kevgib67]

I think it is an unavoidable green film algae that shows up in new tanks. Kinda like diatoms it tends to be self limiting and mine disappeared in 4-8 weeks without me doing a thing.

 

[Sunday101]

Awesome! Thank you all for the help! I'll give it some time then and keep brushing it off little by little.