what test kits to get

scootingblenny · 03-23-2006, 04:20 PM

ive been having cyanobacteria outbreaks recently and ive been trying to fight it with WC's and heavy skimming but it doesn't seem to go away. I was just wondering what things i should test for that would copntribute to algae growths

tims · 03-23-2006, 04:27 PM

Cyano. is a part of the cycle so if your tank is newer then you will haveit, but it is also apart of the normal tank runnign, we just try to keep in check.

a lot of times it is the amount of food you are feeding or how often, Is you skimmer runnign "wet"?
when you do a water chenge , try and do it when the cyano is out in full bloom, they love the light..
also if you LR came from someone elses tank it may be shedding out waste that is feeding the algae.
you may also look in to "clean up "crew that will go after various algaes

scootingblenny · 03-23-2006, 04:41 PM

what do you mean by running "wet"? and what things should i get for a clenaing crew?

elephen · 03-23-2006, 05:04 PM

In general I'd get Salifert test kits. The best prices I've been able to find is: http://www.reeftanksupply.com/index.php?cPath=43

scootingblenny · 03-23-2006, 05:48 PM

which kits will test for things that contribute to algae blooms?

elephen · 03-23-2006, 05:52 PM

Phosphate

tims · 03-23-2006, 08:13 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by scootingblenny

what do you mean by running "wet"? and what things should i get for a clenaing crew?

runnign a skimmer wet is having a liquid waste in the collection cup, Dry running gives you that sorta heavy foam..you pull out a lot more runnign wet but you need to keep an eye on the skimmer more.

Various clean up crew like hermits and snails will go after differant algaes