White spider web like stuff

[16fishes]

This white stringy stuff has taken over my tank. I’ve been cycling this tank without fish for about a month. My levels are normal so I don’t really know what this is or what could have caused it. I cleaned off most of it, but within 24 hours it’s back. Help?

 

[Tahoe61]

Bacterial strands. What did you use to initiate the cycle?

 

[16fishes]

Bacterial strands. What did you use to initiate the cycle?

Live rock and live sand

 

[Tahoe61]

Live rock and live sand

Hmm wet live rock? That looks like dry supposedly seeded dry CaribSea rock?
If you added bacteria products like Microbactor7 or similar it had been my experience you may see bacterial growth.
It could also be dried biological material that entered the tank via introduction of rock or sand.

 

[16fishes]

Live rock and live sand

Yea I used wet live rock and wet live sand. Should I be worried about the growths or will it go away on its own once I get some fish in there?

 

[Fish Fan]

I agree, it's a good idea keep all the replies on this thread, it just makes it easier for members to help you if everything is in one place. R2R is very active, if you post, we'll see it

I also agree that this is almost certainly some kind of bacterial biofilm. I don't think it's anything to worry about, and I'd be surprise if it didn't just disappear on its own very soon. If it is bacterial, it could be consuming organics in the system, possible from the rock if it was real, wet live rock from a solid local fish store (and I hope it was!). Blow it off with your trusty turkey baster, and again in time I think it will no longer return.

I'll add, one month in and your tank should be cycled and ready for your first livestock. Do you have any questions about your cycle, and if your tank may be ready for livestock (assuming it was correctly cycled)? If so, we're all ears

Best of luck with your build!