Reef Discussion

[Dr. Schell]

About the only thing that I know that feeds on brown hair algae is Sea Hairs (Genus: Aplysia). These molluscs will strip a tank of hair algae in a matter of days. However, before you rush out an get one, there are a few things that you should know. Sea-hairs contain a dye that is derived from toxins contained within the algae that they feed on. If the sea-hairs feel threatened or get stressed, they can release this dye which has the potential to wipe out your tank. In addition, sea-hairs are annual species with a life-span streaching over a single year. Their growth rates are astronomical. My best suggestiion is to ensure that your nutrient load in your tank is minimal (use some macro algae to export nutrients), with no detectable levels of nitrates, nitrites, ammonia and phosphate. Over time, the algae will starve.
Good luck, Cheers, Chris.

 

[Ariel]

I was told a Kole tang eats hair algae? (obviously needs a big tank though)

 

[Dynamic]

I cleaned the tank out on the weekend, and now it has started growing on the sand bed again. I have no idea how to get rid of this thing...

 

[MTG]

just manually pull it out. it will eventualy settle down your tanks still only new and needs to go through its stages. it happens to everyone :unsure

 

[Dynamic]

Ah cool. As long as it is not an outbreak or something.

 

[jashay]

its not an outbreak lol.

it will happen in a new tank as Matty said. it can also happen from very large water changes, or also blow outs in your parameters caused by things like a dead fish, lots of waste etc. its part of a natural cycle and will eventually starve once you get rid of your nitrates. a good bacteria effecient filter will do this. water changes to remove nitrates can help too. if you are to do it try small changes every day, depending on tank size.

 

[Dynamic]

Thanks dude. I usually take a cup of water out and put a cup of water in daily. I need a bigger tank..

 

[MTG]

d

Thanks dude. I usually take a cup of water out and put a cup of water in daily. I need a bigger tank..

do i hear a 2x2x2 in the making? :)