Hair Algae Question

[Nemo173]

Hey guys quick question...is hair algae in my refugium something normal? I just noticed that my sand bed in my refugium started growing some hair algae....thanks!

 

[Deanos]

Hair algae growing on a sandbed is not normal.

 

[KathyC]

No, you don't want hair algae anywhere in your system. The appearance of hair algae means you have too many nutrients in your water, and/or you bulbs are shot (very basic answer).
Do you have another reefer near you that might have a Hanna Meter to measure your phosphates? What is your nitrate level?

 

[Nemo173]

My MH bulbs are about 9 months now...but the fuge lights are about a month old....lights in the fuge run 24/7 with rocks and chaeto in it.... im going to get a test kit tomorrow....so should i siphon it out to clean it?

 

[KathyC]

MH bulbs at 9 months are near the end of their life (many say). You might want to try and have the fuge light come on during the time the MH's are off - it is said that it also helps stabilize the PH level. Having the lights on there for 24/7 may well be adding to your issue.

Most test kits to measure phosphates are inaccurate, a Hanna Meter is definitely the way to go - but best to ask someone who has one to do the test for you as they are kind of expensive at around 175.00 to purchase

Frequent water changes and feeding smaller meals and the use of a phosban reactor are very beneficial in reducing your phosphate levels.

 

[SevTT]

Hey guys quick question...is hair algae in my refugium something normal? I just noticed that my sand bed in my refugium started growing some hair algae....thanks!

It's normal if you have high nutrients and good lighting. Otherwise, no. However, don't bother taking action to remove it, since it's just in the fuge, until you fix the root problem -- right now it's working to clean your water.