Bubble Algae in 28g nano...just replace LR, or?

[PaulEZ]

Ok so I have an outbreak of bubble algae on my LR. I should have stayed on top of it, but I didn't. I feel like its got to a point where it would be easier to just remove all the rock and replace it. Being its a 28g, this wouldnt be to much of a process.

Thoughts?

Also, if i remove all the live rock and replace it with dead, will I face a nitrate spike? My tank is established with both sps and lps...

Tks

 

[KathyC]

Something to think about...you have bubble algae growing so well because your water parameters probably need some attention to get them corrected.

Changing the rock will help but first you need to address the problem, the algae is only a symptom.

Might be best to work on getting the water back and shape and while you are doing that you can cycle the replacement rock in a different vessel so it is ready to go into your tank without causing any spikes or a new cycle in there (which will happen ).

 

[PaulEZ]

Something to think about...you have bubble algae growing so well because your water parameters probably need some attention to get them corrected.

Changing the rock will help but first you need to address the problem, the algae is only a symptom.

Might be best to work on getting the water back and shape and while you are doing that you can cycle the replacement rock in a different vessel so it is ready to go into your tank without causing any spikes or a new cycle in there (which will happen ).

Appreciate the advice. There was a short period when I got lazy with maintaining the tank, and was feeding heavy. I have since got things in order.

What is the best way to cycle new rock?

 

[KathyC]

It happens Maybe hand pick off some of the bubble algae in the meantime so you feel better about the tank

A small rubbermaid tote, a heater and a powerhead to circulate the water and some salt water and time...same as you would do inside a tank. Do rinse/brush it off if it has any dead matter on it and pop it in the tote. Do 'feed' the rock to get an ammonia level going if the dead matter doesn't do it and every now and then do a water change. Do remember to put a pinch off food in there to keep the bacteria alive during this process. Once the ammonia & nitrites are gone and the rock smells good, you should be good to go.

 

[budddman]

A fleet of emerald crabs may or may not assist you. Supposedly known for taking care of bubble algae.

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