Wierd fuzzy stuff in tank??????

[navytex21]

I have 30 gal tank, prizm skimmer and 4 55 watt bulbs setup. i set the tank up about 3-4 months ago with 20 lbs of rock and i few damsels to help cycle the tank. now that i have coral in the tank i am getting the reddish brown fuzzy stuff on the sand my tank. Help please.

[yardboy]

Your skimmer is inadequate and nutrients are building up, promoting a bloom of cyanobacteria or diatoms.

What kind of water movement do you have? Tested for nitrates or phosphate? Do you fantasize about a bigger skimmer? If so, pursue your fantasies. It'll help clear up that mess.

[navytex21]

the skimmer i have is for up to 100 gal. i have a 300 gph powerhead wide open for maximum flow. i had my water tested by my aquarium buddy and he said the my water is perfect. what else could it be.

[wharyat]

The skimmer is rated for 100 gal but does not perform very well. I have the same on a 20 and run it almost full open, which is the best way to run it.

[navytex21]

so what can i do to fix the problem, buy a different skimmer, upgrade, what ever ideas you have please give them to me. thanks for the help.

[navytex21]

could this cause fish to die also?

[rockster2599]

Whoa, before you run off and buy an expensive new skimmer, I had a red sea prism on my 45 gal for 4 years and no cyanobacteria. Cyano growth depends on nutrients and poor water flow, so a cheaper way to deal with the problem is to feed less and get more powerheads (a lot cheaper than skimmers). It may not sort out the problem but you can try it first. Cyano doesnt normally kill fish unless it is in huge amounts and is affecting dissolved oxygen in the water. Your tank is still relatively young and knee jerk reflexes may do more harm than good.
Just trying to save your $$$$
Rockster

[navytex21]

thanks for the info.