Black Algae Help!

[Headrush]

OK not sure if this is the right part of the Forum but here goes...

I have my 30 gallon (36" long x 12" front to back) set up with 1 large peace lilly in the center and driftwood with java Fern at each end. The idea was to let the fern establish itself enough to allow cover for some German Blue Rams. This tank has been running for a year and a half and was home to my Jack Dempsey until I bought a 90 gallon. Anyway, I'm about ready for the GBR's and have noticed 2 of the marble shale rocks have black algae starting to cover them. It's been appearing on the plants as well and I began to notice it about 2 weeks ago. Normally this is where the green algae grows (just a light film at most). I let it go because my oto's and Hillstream Loaches like to eat it.

1. What is causing the Black algae to grow on the rocks and plants?
2. How do I get rid of it?
3. Is there another compatible fish that may benefit from it? Maybe Its OK in there?

30 gallon stock list:
2 Otocinclus
2 Chinese Hillstream Loaches (water is around 80 deg. F but they are very active and doing well at this temp)
8 Neon Tetras
3 Rummy Nosed Tetras
2 YOYO Loaches (almost big enough to go in the 90, so they'll be out soon)

All info/comments are welcome

Thanks to all in advance!!

 

[WyldFya]

Post a pic of the algae.

 

[Headrush]

OK will try my best to get some close-ups. Kinda looks like black dust spread over the rock. It's not to the point where its thick or hairy looking. Hopefully will have some shots of it tonight.

Can you tell me what you're looking for so I can try to get shots to help you ID it?

 

[WyldFya]

Just a photo of it is plenty. I'll be able to identify the algae based on a clear shot of the alga, even if it isn't a close up.

 

[Headrush]

Got home late last night and took 3-4 shots of it. On leaves and on the rocks. Will post them tonight. Thanks in advance!

 

[Headrush]

Here you go.

 

[Headrush]

Does anyone know how to deal with this stuff? Seems like the oto's like eating it and so do the hillstream loaches but its getting worse.

HELP!

 

[WyldFya]

That is just a basic brown algae, common with newly setup tanks. Snails are a great way to get rid of this algae.

 

[Headrush]

Thank you! So the snail will clean the plants too and not eat them? I had a Mystery snail but it kept getting stuck in the filter intake... Removed him about a month ago, and thats when the algae went nuts. Water tests very good. Is this related to minerals or something else in the water I might be able to control better?

Thought I might put foam around it to keep him from being pulled inside...good idea?

 

[tyl089]

have you tested the nitrate content in the water?

I also have them, but i don't really care about it; my plecos enjoy sucking on them, and my fish are thriving, and when i change my water/ gravel vac, i just stair out the gravel with the algae to the bottom. It may be your tank light are strong, or leave them on a long time.