Nitrate problem

[rkaragozler]

I have a 30 gallon fuge just with macro algae, 4" sand bed, hooked up to a 55 gallon sump. The fuge was full of the macro algae from top to bottom, so I gave some away and threw some out, now the fuge is only 1/3 full. will this cause a spike in nitrate?

 

[OzoneParkGuy]

I would presume soo... as the Chaeto is acting as your filter in removing Nitrates (get rid of your filter, your going to have an issue). I would be carefull in feeding now... once daily, and do not over feed. Feed only what your fish can consume in 2-3 minutes. May I ask why did you go from having a full 30gallon sump of chaeto to pruning it to 1/3rd ? I know its a nice jesture to give excess away but not at your own risk.

 

[chinatown]

your nitrates won't skyrocket. it'll most likely be the same before you pruned your macro algae. chaeto only works when it grows, so as long as you have room, it'll still grow and eat up your nutrients.