Red Algae, or red slime algae, is one of the most frequently found forms of algae found in saltwater tanks. The title “algae” is actually a misnomer, simply because red algae is really a type of cyanobacteria.
The reason why this algae is such a common problem is due to the fact that they are well-suited to aquarium conditions. What I mean by that is that most hobbyists (in both the freshwater and saltwater scene) don’t keep proper tabs on the nutrient levels in their tanks. It’s not an easy task, that’s for sure!
The two nutrients that red algae love are nitrates and phosphates. Fish excrement, fish food, and gradually rotting detritus lead to excess nitrates and phosphates, so both of these are always found in aquariums with these characteristics.
With regards to fish excrement, obviously the more you feed, the more waste matter is produced by fish and invertebrates in your tank. By feeding reduced portions at fewer intervals, the tank inhabitants produce less waste and uneaten food left to rot becomes less of an issue as well.
Nitrate is significantly reduced via water changes so if you’re dealing with a red algae bloom, do a water change or two per week. You want to aim for a reading of zero. Though phosphates will be also reduced during water changes, they usually tend to rebound in a day or two.
Employing phosphate removal media is also a great method of nutrient control. I highly recommend placing it in an area of high water flow. Follow the included instructions and set the correct amount depending on your tank size. Your phosphate levels should read zero within 48 hours.
Another thing to note about red slime algae is that it doesn’t fare well in high flow areas. If you notice where almost all of your red algae growth is taking place, it is most likely in an area of lower water flow. Increase flow to that area as soon as possible.
These methods of controlling red algae are both proactive and reactive. But if you already have an algae problem, one of the most significant things you can do is begin by physically removing as much of the red algae from the tank as possible. With red slime algae, it shouldn’t be too hard because they tend to form carpets that can be removed with little difficulty. Just scrape it off of your live rock, glass, pumps and any other areas. Make certain to remove any suspended bits of red algae as well, along with any detritus and uneaten fish food.
Lighting is also a consideration when it comes to algae, and red algae is no different. If your lights are older than 6 months, then you should change them. Bulbs age, and the light they emit is going to gradually change in spectrum over time. In the case of reef lighting, bulbs eventually begin giving off more of a reddish color. Unfortunately, the red spectrum allows many forms of algae to really thrive. Other than changing out your bulbs, decreasing your photoperiod to 4-5 hours a day will help to control algae.
There are many ways to control red algae but as with all algae control methods, results take time. Getting rid of cyanobacteria normally takes weeks of thorough care. Follow these steps for at least a month and you should be well on your way to getting rid of red slime algae.
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This is such a deep blog! What can I say, youve hit the nail right on the head! Youve got a great way of communicating with the reader, a great way of making me feel like what you have to say is just as important to me as it is to you. Keep it up!
This is so true for new hobbyist and even us so called “experts”. Not keeping tabs on the nutrient levels is something that is so easy to forget and when the red slime starts. that’s when we start to panic. But I guess even the type of filter plays an important part. I’ve nitced undergravel filters tend to be a big culprit to red slime growth.
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This is very interesting. I actually enjoy your writing style and your word choice more than anything Smile
Fantastic Read! i always thought this algae was bad but recently i was told that this algae is where naturose comes from that you often find in Aquarium Products. Is this tha case or is it something different?
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I’ve been having a problem with my Clowns. There fiesty.