Help ID algea in sump.

[smokin reefer]

I have been having this algea on and off for about 6 months. Not really been a nussiance, but just has me wondering. It seems to come and go, cycle usually lasts about 1 week. Then disappears for about a week, only to return. It is white in color, floats on the top of the water in the sump only. I guess the overflow keeps it out of the main tank. It also grows on the equipment in the sump in a form of white strands kind of like hair. NOTE: It does not grow in the main tank. I have run carbon, did water changes, did all the tests. Nothing showing up. Here are a couple of pics of the algea. Any help would be appreciated.

 

[Kenzy]

Is it actually an algae? I think its what most refer to as scum build up. Add a power head and aim towards the surface and you'll never see it again.

 

[smokin reefer]

Kenzy, thanks for the response. I really don't know what it is, this is the reason for the post. But their seems to be a similar substance growing in the sump on the equipment. Mabe when the stuff is floating it is spawing? I took my net this morning and skimmed the surface and collected most of the substance. Anyone else with any ideas?

 

[smokin reefer]

8)

 

[charles1]

Add a pump to the top of the sump and it will not show up again. I've had the problem before. It forms when there is a stagnant water build up.

 

[dizzy]

Doug,

It looks like calcium carbonate from kalkwasser to me.

Mitch

 

[smokin reefer]

Thanks guys I will try the pump in the sump.

 

[Anonymous]

It looks like floating bacteria or other organism(s). It appears that whatever it is is creating o2, which would explain the bubbles. I agree that you should use a pump because the film may be severely limiting o2 exchange.