Coraline algae bleaching

[Newtoreef]

I just installed new lights and I went to 3 250 watt metal halides plus actinics. from 1 4' VHO light fixture over my 140 gal reef. I used 5 layers of screen and took off a layer every couple days days. I'm down to the last layer and it looks like my Coraline algae is losing its color. I did have one day when the water temp his 84.5. That was 2 days ago I have put fans on and resolved the problem. Any ideas?

 

[Anonymous]

84.5 is nothing, I used to keep my reef at 84 all the time. Unless it was a very rapid spike from the 70's, no worries.
The coraline will come back...patience. :wink:

There's more, but you'll have to show up to class.

 

[Anonymous]

My coralline bleaches from time to time and I do not always know why. It does usually happen when upgrading lights or replacing bulbs. Keep you Ca and Alk high and it will return.

 

[Newtoreef]

Thx Jim. I will do my best to be there Sun. :lol:

 

[blackcloudmedia]

In my experience coralline algae prefers less intense light. I get the greatest coralline growth in my lessly lit tanks. I had the same problem as you when I installed a MH fixture in my 29 gal.

 

[Anonymous]

You get different types/shades of coraline at with different light levels. I've never had any shortage of coraline in Halide lit SPS tanks, or tanks that were lit by PC's and much dimmer. It will grow right under halides, or in total or almost total darkness.

Current is a big factor though, high current tends to accelerate it's buildup. You see this where current from a power head hits the side of the tank.

 

[blackcloudmedia]

Hmm it could just be the dominating strain of coralline I have prefers lower light.

Ive always been fascinated how coralline grows in a powerhead stream, Ive wondered how a spore could attach itself to such a smooth surface at such a high velocity. Perhaps the spores have hooks on them to help grasp?

As far as the question goes I have random dieoffs of coralline sometimes but its usually in patches and theres usually a key event that happens such as a light bulb change or not doesing calcium or a PH issue. I wouldnt be worried, there are studies that coralline releases all of its spores before it bleaches out, also Ive taken live rock out of my tank before (due to an aiptasia outbreak) and left it to dry for months, when I put it back into my tank (after curing it) there was still coralline in its crevices that began spreading again.