shawnw

what is the easiest way to get rid of it...it's just on the bottom... in my sand.. i have 2 shrimp...emerald crab and some snails.... my LFS didnt have any sand sifting fish.

pepetj

I wouldn't worry about it. What you are looking at is probably beneficial for your tank. I noticed that your tank (as mine) is quite newly set. It shall take us another six to eight months to realize if our tanks will end up with a steady algae problem.

Check the following pic of diatoms forming an algae-like structure in an isolated "pool" I took in the Caribbean coast of Hispaniola Island, where I live. If your tank ends up looking like this, then check your nitrates and phosphate levels, if higher than expected, you know what to do: go with small but frequent water changes.

Pepetj
Santo Domingo

Attached Images

Diatoms in coastal pool P1030199.JPG (563.5 KB, 32 views)

shawnw

it is just really a big brown area on my sand and it looks as if it is getting darker.. i just did a water change like 5 days ago and i did a test earlier and everything tested fine.... i just wasnt for sure if i was to leave it along or to vacuum it out or something

MizRamzi

It's diatoms. Found in all new tanks. You'll find it higher in tanks that are using tap water/well water. Less so when using RO/DI water. Major cause like with all algae's, phosphates. Phosban will help rid your tank of phosphates.

shawnw

wat is the easiest and safest way to remove it

MizRamzi

Get some, Phosban. Use as directed. Your not going to eliminate all of it. Diatoms are normal in a new tank. As your tank matures the diatoms will starve out. Yes, we all know how ugly it is, but be patient grasshopper this too shall pass.

shawnw

awesome..thanks a mill..

MizRamzi