Algae

Kelso

What algae species am I dealing with? I'm trying to get rid of it and I can't determine the factor to it's growth. I have crypts as well, and no matter what I try, they always get this brown algae, and now it is spreading! Help would be appreciated. I am far from an expert on plants

Kelso

Please help :(

Byron

From the photo it doesn't look bad, and appears to be diatoms (common brown algae); I assume it easily comes off with your fingers?

Some more info would help. How long has this tank been running, what size tank, what is the light (be specific), and what fertilizer(s) are you using? The substrate looks like sand so I will assume it is not enriched (no plant substrate under it, or soil).

Byron.

Kelso

It comes off easily with my fingers.
It's been running a year if not a little more.
28 Gallons.
15 Watt @ 5500K
Seachem Flourish @ 2xWeek
Regular Sand

Thank You.

Byron

That is diatoms then. I have heard of it appearing in established (non-new) tanks, though rarely. When this occurs, some authors say it is lack of light, others minerals or something.

How long is the light on daily? I would aim for 12 hours if it is now less.