Green Algae Pearling? + Pool Filter Sand Air-Bubble Pockets

[Matthew1626]

Hi Guys,

Please see attached pictures of some algae in my 180. I actually like the algae and hope it continues to grow, but I am wondering about the bubbling. Is this pearling, or something I should be concerned about? I also use pool filter sand which seems to accumulate air pockets, and I've read up on the possible release of methane (?), but I have been disturbing the sand and releasing the bubbles every time I do a water change (every three days), so I'm hopeful it isn't harmful.

Anyhow, please let me know your thoughts on this.

Thank you!

 

[BichirKing]

Pearling is a sign of a healthy tank. its excess oxygen from the photosynthesis process. i'd love to see my plants do it but they haven't so far.

How deep is your sand?

 

[Matthew1626]

Thanks B BichirKing ...soin my case, this would be considered pearling? ...my sand is about 1.5" deep, but piles up in some places.

 

[BichirKing]

looks like pearling to me, so nothing to worry about and your sand isn't that deep to be so concerned about methane unless you have a ton of uneaten food that's rotting but your maintenance doesn't seem like that's the case. my sand is 3-4 " in my 240g and I haven't had those issues. hopefully this helps with easing your concerns.

 

[Matthew1626]

Very much so...thank you again!

 

[deeda]

That looks like cyanobacteria to me, especially the way it is sheeting on the sand.

 

[Matthew1626]

What does that mean?

 

[BichirKing]

blue/green algae aka

cyanobacteria some people don't like it others do. kinda like blackbeard algae. phosphates are usual suspects for outbreaks. ​

 

[Matthew1626]

Interesting...well, as I said, I like the algae as long as it's not harmful to the fish. Honestly, I would like for there to be more of the brownish-green hairy-type algae that sways in the water.

Thanks for the replies

 

[BichirKing]

if this is left unchecked it can cause problems if you have plants especially. maybe shorten the length the lights are on and it should help. green algae likes light. BBA for me seems to occur when I have a tank with short light schedules.