UV Sterilizer On Freshwater/Planted Tank?

[MyGiants]

Could be. He needs to identify which algae he has. I can't tell for sure from his pictures. The algae I described as "hair" which is what most people describe just by its looks is actually "beard algae" or blue/green or "brush algae". This algae does grow on gravel grows on edges of plants almost anything once it gets out of control. This algae is almost impossible to get rid of. The picture you show is also described as hair algae and if he has that it can be controlled by fish that eat it.

http://www.aquarticles.com/articles/plants/Algae_description_control.html

http://www.aquahobby.com/articles/e_freshwater_algae.php

http://bubblesaquarium.com/images/home mid_photo/Article on Algae/freshwater_algae.htm

that last one don't why the link is like that. Just copy and past the whole thing will get the link page

 

[jandb]

Decrease, not increase. And it's not a dangerous type of PH-swing, as it does not affect TDS. Co2-induced ph swings are completely safe.

As for the algae, that doesn't look like hair algae. Look like some type of BGA/cyanobacteria. Hair algae in my experience looks like strands of fishing string, and is the DEVIL. Like My Giants said, once it takes hold, it's nearly impossibe to get rid of. Hair algae can be temporarily killed by squirting it with hydrogen peroxide using a small syringe.

Jose, I agree. The more I look online I think it's cynobacteria. It adds up, new tank, I have nitrates that aren't even measurable, at some point during the cycle it was exposed to ammonia and light. That being said what do you guys think about erithromycin (Maracyn)? It seems like people have used it with success. I just don't want to hurt the livestock. Any thoughts?

 

[jcardona1]

How long have you had the BGA problem? I always get it in my newly setup planted tanks, but it's never been as bad as yours. Just a little slime along the substrate and it goes away on its just as fast as it started...

 

[jandb]

It's been about 3 weeks. I hate to use chemicals if it will just run it's course with vacc'ing every other day or so. It's just really hanging on though.

 

[joe jaskot]

Blue green algae rarely goes away on its own. Tough to get rid of. Go with Ultra Life Blue Green Algae Remover. I have used it a few times, and it works. It does not harm your fish or the bio in the tank. I have recommended it to others, and they were very satisfied with the results.