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Phosphates

Discussion in 'General Discussion' started by kmcgill88, Jun 8, 2011.

  1. Jun 8, 2011 #1
    kmcgill88

    kmcgill88 Inactive User

    54
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    I am beginning to notice some algae growing in my tank. Couple rocks have at first, now on the sand. Sorta looks like the beginning of a toasted marshmallow. This is my first tank and i've only ever tested pH, ammonia, nitrite, nitrates, and hardness. I've been told and have read some about phosphates. I know I can do a water change to lower the phosphates but what is the best way to manage this in the long run.
    To help I have a 55 with refugium, 5 fish, and two crabs. I use RO for water changes but use Cedar Rapid tap water to melt brine shrimp for feeding. 
    Thanks!
     
  2. Jun 8, 2011 #2
    blackx-runner Cedar Rapids, IA

    blackx-runner Administrator Website Team Leadership Team

    6,044
    Cedar Rapids, IA
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    How long has the tank been running now? Could just be part of the tank maturing.
    I thought I had a phosphate issue, but could never get a reading on my test kit. Got a hanna phosphate photometer and still couldn't get a reading. I started running GFO and carbon and my algae growth has seemed to slow down. Maybe doing the same thing will help you?
     
  3. Jun 8, 2011 #3
    kgehrke

    kgehrke Inactive User

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    Sounds like you're having a run-of-the-mill diatom bloom. Like x-runner said, it's likely your tank is just maturing. I wouldn't worry about the GFO just yet. If you just keep up with routine maintenance and don't overfeed, it should pass. If it doesn't in a week or two then it's time to start looking around for ideas.

    Also, start using RO for feedings instead of tap, that way you won't have to wonder if its the water.
     
  4. Jun 9, 2011 #4
    Bymers311

    Bymers311 Inactive User

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    When I thaw my frozen food (Rod's) I use a turkey baster to draw some water out of the actual tank to be used to thaw the food. It may not be the cause now, but I think using tap water will only lead to problems down the road. As mentioned by kgehrke using RO is also a much better alternative that using tap water.
     
  5. Jun 9, 2011 #5
    cowdust9

    cowdust9 Well-Known ReefKeeper

    999
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    im going to start using this http://reefbuilders.com/2011/05/06/po4x4-phosphate-remover/
     

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