Slime Everywhere

[michael0418]

1. i have had this problem for over 2 months and i can't seem to get rid of it! the tank is over stocked but should be fixed in 2 weeks time. I'm having this slime coat develop on the top of the water. No fish has died. I'm running a canister for 125 gallons and a sponge filter, its a 110 gallon long

 

[duanes]

Proteins from overstocking, fish food, etc will build up on the surface (air water interface), just like oil on a stagnant puddle, unless broken up by surface agitation.
If the canister is pumping slowly, or the water return is below the surface this will prevent the film from breaking up.
Either put the spray bar above the surface, or add an airstone or 2.

The film can become problematic because it can hinder gas exchange.
It can also help to do part of your water changes by pulling water, and slime from the surface.

 

[Aquanero]

Have you tested your water? What is your water change schedule and cleaning routine? Is the tank saltwater or freshwater? Have you tried increasing surface agitation breaking up the surface tension by raising your out flow tube or lowering the water level and removing the slime manually? This is most likely some type of protein build up. Wat are you feeding, how often? What is your stock?

Moved to Set up and Filtration.

 

[michael0418]

I had the return like that but it was impossible to sleep I added a pond pump to help the circulation and my Ammonia was a little high nothing too bad I do weekly water changes and its fresh water

 

[duanes]

If you put your return on a union, which makes the water prectory easily adjustable.
When you sleep you go to bed, aim it underwater, then when you wake up, position it so a breaks the surface. This should be enough to break the surface tension, an keep slime to a minimum.
Here's a union.

 

[Aquanero]

I'm glad you posted here Duane, I meant to post last night and got side tracked.

I was thinking about using probiotics for this issue,

http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/f...cs-in-aquaculture.536531/page-28#post-7301842

I just dosed my tanks with RidX on Wednesday and they look great today crystal clear and spotless. I think it might chew that stuff right up. Once cleared, following your suggestion above should keep it that way.

 

[duanes]

Tom, I think you're sneaking around in my head.

 

[Aquanero]

They say great minds think alike…......

 

[michael0418]

THX for all the help!