Cyno question

[Tony Quinn]

If one's nutrient levels have remained constant on a well established tank (55g invert only, mainly corals) what could cause a start in cyno over some of the live rock surfaces. It isn't much of a problem at the moment but I really want to identify to cause and eliminate it.

 

[Reefguide]

I'm no expert, I have my own problems with Cyno (only in fuge but still there) but what I've been told is that it's usually related to too low of current in the tank, lighting spectrum, or maybe even over feeding. The feeding may not be a problem for you seeing that you have only a invert and coral tank with probably little to no feedings.

Are your bulbs due for a change?

What filtration / pumps do ya have running?

Do you feed the tank at all?

 

[Tony Quinn]

No problem with water movement, surge and wave controller in place with 6 pumps, new MH bulbs fitted recently. Could be a slight overfeeding strangely enough although I think unlikely. I had been feeing the bubble corals and open brain with mysis and the other corals with phyto/marine snow. With the minimal skimming I employ on the invert tank, it may have been overfed, therefore I have reduced the regime to once a week. I always thought of cyno as a bacteria and perhaps something else caused it. My NO3 is a little high to say the least even with my DSB.

 

[jmeader]

Cyano is a bacteria and as such feeds on organics, some of which are removed by skimming and some by carbon or other chemical filtration. Protein skimming does not remove all organics since not all organics are proteins.

 

[beerbaron]

do u have a ro/di? i had a problem when using non ro water due to phosphates. try adding some phosphate remover.(the carbon type works best for me, but get the expensive stuff. it does make a difference)
HTH
BB

 

[Tony Quinn]

PO4 is nil reading, all water is pure RO. This is the first occurance I have had on any marine tank and I haven't changed any procedures.

 

[jmeader]

I use a low level outbreak of cyano as an indicator of when the system is ready for filter feeders such as encrusting sponges and red plants. In a well maintained system it can take months or years to develop. It primarily depends on your stocking levels, feeding regimen, and filtration methods.