Red algae growth & phosphates

Question
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Todd,

After a 20% + water change the ammonia level dropped to between 0-.25 so it is on the way down.  The phosphate level is also down to about .5.

I recently added some reef rock (source of phosphates?) and replaced a burned out flourescent bulb (a URI, Actinic White, 12,000 kelvin). This is the exact same light that burned out and I had no problems with red growth before. But I'm seeing the red growth on TOP of the rocks in my tank, not underneath of them. Makes me think the direct rays of the new bulb might be stimulating growth somehow.

I have ordered a phosphate pad and a chemical reducer for ammonia which should be delivered within the next 2-3 days.

Mike
Followup To
Question -
Todd,

Thanx for responding so quickly.  I'll get on the water change and purchase one of the chemicals and a phosphate reducing pad ASAP.  I am at a loss to figure out why the phosphate levels are so high. I only use water from a reverse osmosis filtration system for the tank and the light is only on 6-9 hours a day.

Thanx again.

Mike
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Followup To
Question -
Todd,

I have a 60 gallon saltwater tank with just 2 percula clowns and a Yellow Tang. I'm getting a high Phosphate level reading (.75) and an elevated ammonia level (.25) and am starting to get red algae growth on my rocks along with brown on the glass.  Any connection?  I've just added a Ph buffer.

Mike
Answer -

Mike,

You should do a 20% water change quickly (with newly prepared sea water). This should decrease your NH3and stabilize your PH.  Also you can buy a product called AMQUEL Plus By Kordon or Prime by Seachem.  Both will remove NH3 by 1.2 ppm to 0.6 ml per liter of water.

The growth of unwanted algae is from too much light (no more than 12 hours).  Or high phosphate levels.  You can buy a phosphate reducing pad. I like to place one of these in my filter to reduce phosphate. It works well.

Good Luck
Todd

Answer -


Mike,


Are your water parameters any better.
Todd

Answer


Mike,

It sounds like you are on the right path. You should be ok with the Phosphate pad.  Only use the NH3 reducer when it's a must.
Water changes will help keep your NH3 near 0.

If you need anything else just shoot me an e-mail.

Good luck
Todd