some strange growth on tank?

[rallysman]

I have recently been seeing more and more of a black colored "something" growing on the glass of the tank, and it wont scrape off easily at all. I have no clue what it is but i do know that it is pissing me off. This tank was used for saltwater before I got it, but its now fresh. i dont know if that has anything to do with it. would apple snails or something possibly help me keep this under control?

 

[cockroach]

a pic mite help id the problem

 

[DeLgAdO]

ALGAE!!!

 

[rallysman]

It doesnt really look like algae, its grainy and almost feels like salt stuck to the side of the tank. I'll try to get a pic of it up. Thanks again for everyones help!

 

[guppy]

If it is a small but growing blackish brown dot itis a type of calcium fixing brown algae, one of the oldest lifeforms on earth, and a real pain in the behind. It usually starts as small dots at the water line and the gravel line. It grows slower than green algae but you damn near need a razor blade to get it off and when you do you should makesure you get it all collected in a clean rag or it will reattach wherever it settles. I have found nothing that eats it. If you scratch at it with a finger nail it will feel gritty like a lime deposit.

 

[rallysman]

Thats what it sounds like I guess its a good thing its glass and not acrylic if i have to use a razor :facepalm: