Brown Algae

[pluff]

Hi all,i got some brown algae on the sides on my tank.My question is,what is this caused by?If i leave it will it turn to green algae?Also i got this white stringie stuff floating around,it looks like cotton or silk.Anyone know what this could be?

Thank You

Pluff:cheers:

[Brian L]

Brown algae may be a result of excess nutrients or poor water conditions. Lighting is also a factor. Nitrates and phosphates will feed algae, but ideally, nutrients are minimized with water changes and a conservative approach to the "balance" of a system. Also; alkalinity, pH and Calcium concentrations must be maintained. When these get low- which they usually do as time passes, lower forms of algae will thrive. When calcium and alkalinity are maintained, formation of calcerous coraline algae can occur.

As for the white things, are they floating around or actually swimming? Anyway, most of the worm type variety are beneficial and just work through as a phase in your tank.

Talk soon,

Brian L

[afss]

The brown algea is more than likely not a big deal. It is more than likely caused by either lack of use of RO water, a bad RO filter, or over feeding the tank (more than the bio-filtration of your tank can handel). All 3 of these equate to excess nutrients in the water. Could also be helped along by a shift in the color spectrum of your lighting, or lighting of an incorect spectrum (less than 6500k).
I find that on occasion i have to use tap water... I don't have an R/O unit, or much on reserve (I buy it from a local water shop).. there have been a few times when i had a bit of a spill or what ever and didn't have enough water on hand. I have noticed that I get a powdery brown algea on my glass when ever i over feed, or if i used tap water.

Hope this helps.. I don't think its anything to worry about, but something to think about.
Its really hard to say for sure without knowing exactly what your bio setup is and what your stocking level, feeding habits, lighting and water setups are.

Scott