New to Marine

[kingpa]

Well here goes

My lovely white coral sand is going brown (Diatom algae?)

Only ocean gravel, coral sand, live rock and ocean rock in the tank

Tested water

All water is purchased ready mixed RO from local dealer no tap water or other source of nitrate added.

Ammonia as near to zero as test kit can show
Nitrite as near to zero as you can get
Nitrate >50ppm
PH 8.3

So I guess the cycle is done and it's time to start with the water changes and skimming to get the nitrate levels down.

I have read somewhere that diatom algae should go when the nitrates are reduced and also that diatoms thrive on silicates and that these should be reduced too.

I would like too add more live rock before I add any livestock would this help or hinder?

Any advice on the diatom algae?

Paul

 

[panmanmatt]

When i first set up my tank it sat for over 2 months with just LR in it. now six months later all is well. just stock very slowly and in small amounts. good luck and welcome to the hobby.

 

[kingpa]

Wow

Tank cycled

Diatoms gone (eaten by 1/2 million little white wriggly critters hatched from live rock)

Water Good

Just added two common clowns and a couple of red leg hermits

I will get some photos up soon

Thanks for all the help

Paul