How long before I start to see an algae explosion?

  • We are currently upgrading MFK. thanks! -neo
Hey Punk! As JC said, you will definitely have an algae issue. Besides what he already layed out for you, I would also lower the time in which you lights stay on. Maybe from 10 hours down to 7-8? This would help a tad. As far as suspending your light above the tank to give you more distance, check out this tread that JC helped me with. I think he talks and shows pictures about suspension on the 2nd page.

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/forums/showthread.php?t=341873

Also, I started a thread about fertilization which you might find helpful. I compared using Seachems products to dry fertilizers. Here is that thread...

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/forums/showthread.php?t=342825

Also, to get a basis for how much and what to dose, check this link out...

http://www.plantedtank.net/forums/fertilizers-water-parameters/21944-_dosing-regimes_.html

JC, although Excel isn't a great option for larger tanks, would it not be better for him to use it a little while before he gets a proper CO2 system in place? I would think a little is better than nothing. Might be wrong here though.
 
Myarbro;4302628;4302628 said:
Hey Punk! As JC said, you will definitely have an algae issue. Besides what he already layed out for you, I would also lower the time in which you lights stay on. Maybe from 10 hours down to 7-8? This would help a tad. As far as suspending your light above the tank to give you more distance, check out this tread that JC helped me with. I think he talks and shows pictures about suspension on the 2nd page.

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/forums/showthread.php?t=341873

Also, I started a thread about fertilization which you might find helpful. I compared using Seachems products to dry fertilizers. Here is that thread...

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/forums/showthread.php?t=342825

Also, to get a basis for how much and what to dose, check this link out...

http://www.plantedtank.net/forums/fertilizers-water-parameters/21944-_dosing-regimes_.html

JC, although Excel isn't a great option for larger tanks, would it not be better for him to use it a little while before he gets a proper CO2 system in place? I would think a little is better than nothing. Might be wrong here though.
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nice, you just linked everything i was going to. good looking out :thumbsup:

on the excel, yes definitely. it's better than not adding anything at all. it may not provide enough carbon for those picky demanding plants, but some carbon is better than no carbon, and it will help with the algae. but it can get expensive. 250-500ml bottles go for $8-15, depending on your local prices. and it may go pretty quick on a tank that size.
 
Thanks guys those links are helpful. J I cant remember for the life of me the name of the type of stand you are using to suspend your fixture. It looks perfect for the small footprint Im working with. What are those things called again.
 
Oh ok I have seen stands built like that in the past used to hang items that take up a small footprint I would like to find one If I could remember what the heck they are called. Those adjustable brackets look great and the price is great too.
 
yeah not sure, never seen them before. but a section of conduit costs like $3. bought a manual pipe bender at lowes then returned it after i was done. easy as pie :cheers:
 
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