Algae Issues in Reef Tank

[finnix]

My reef tank's been overrun with algae lately. It's mostly hair algae, but some green film on the glass too. Running a 75 gallon with two Clowns, a Cleaner Shrimp, and a bunch of Zoas. Parameters are 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, 10 nitrate, 8 dKH, 1.025 salinity. Lights are AI Prime HDs, 8 hours a day. Any tips?

[fin_tide]

Yo, that's a bummer. Hair algae's a pain, but you can cut it back. First, how often you doing water changes? I had a similar vibe in my 60 gallon, and bumping changes to twice a week helped. Also, maybe dial the lights back to 6 hours for a bit. What's your phosphate at? High phosphates feed that stuff.

[FishArch]

Yo, that's a bummer. Hair algae's a pain, but you can cut it back. First, how often you doing water changes? I had a similar vibe in my 60 gallon, and bumping changes to twice a week helped. Also, maybe dial the lights back to 6 hours for a bit. What's your phosphate at? High phosphates feed that stuff.

Agreed on the phosphates. If you're not testing for them, get a Hanna checker. Also, consider adding a refugium with Chaeto. It outcompetes the nuisance algae for nutrients. What's your current filtration setup?

[onyxl]

Hair algae thrives under high nutrients and inconsistent lighting. Your nitrates are acceptable, but phosphates could be elevated. Reduce feeding by 20%, manually remove visible algae, and introduce herbivores like Trochus Snails or a Lawnmower Blenny. Ensure your RO/DI water has 0 TDS. What's your current water change schedule?

[silvers]

Oh no, that sounds frustrating! I've been there, and it's so disheartening. Have you tried adding more cleanup crew? My Emerald Crabs went to town on hair algae in my tank. Also, maybe check your flow, low flow spots can let algae settle. Hang in there, you'll beat this!

[finnix]

Thanks for the advice, everyone. I'll test phosphates tomorrow and try reducing the light cycle. Current water changes are weekly, 15%. Filtration is a Fluval 407 canister with chemipure and matrix. Gonna grab some Trochus Snails this weekend.

[fin_tide]

Nice, Trochus are solid. Just watch out, they're kinda clumsy and might knock over loose frags. Also, if you're running chemipure, make sure it's not expired. That stuff loses its mojo after a few months. How old's your current batch?

[FishArch]

Nice, Trochus are solid. Just watch out, they're kinda clumsy and might knock over loose frags. Also, if you're running chemipure, make sure it's not expired. That stuff loses its mojo after a few months. How old's your current batch?

Good point on the chemipure. OP, consider switching to a reactor with GFO if phosphates are high. More control over removal rates. Also, what's your feeding routine? Overfeeding's a common culprit.

[onyxl]

Canister filters can trap detritus, contributing to nutrient buildup. Recommend cleaning it thoroughly and inspecting the impeller for wear. Additionally, ensure your protein skimmer is properly adjusted. What model are you running?

[silvers]

Love the teamwork here! Finnix, you've got this. Just take it step by step. Maybe keep a little journal of changes you make so you can track what works. And don't forget to enjoy your tank even while fixing it. Those Clowns must be adorable!