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Re: Algae problem - need snails
I think the light spectrum may have a little bit to do with algae growth, but the biggest factor is going to be the amount of nutrients in the tank water. I remember when I increased the light intensity over one of my saltwater tanks (from Power Compacts to T5HO bulbs) I had an algae bloom too. I had to increase the frequency of my maintenance routine by changing out the filter pads and the cleaning of the intakes on the protein skimmer every 2 days at first. Also increase the amount of surface agititation of the water to help promote more gas exchange at the surface. I then went out and bought a GE RO unit ($130) for water top-offs and the algae has been kept in check since then.
Nitrates need to be kept low and phosphates as low as possible or 0. By changing out or rinsing the filter pads every couple of days you are exporting nutrients from the aquarium.
Metal Halides, VHO and HO lights are fantastic lights, but (as in my case at first) they can really highlight lax husbandry routines. Before spending more money on lighting, try some of the things mentioned above.
Mike
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. Its slowly going away. I might have just jynxed everything