Brown Algae????

[rk4435]

I've been running GFO for several weeks to reduce PO4 and added a Carbon reactor two weeks ago to reduce Nitrates.

I've noticed that the brown algae / diatoms have become more common on my glass.

Will the brown algae die away as the nitrate level comes down? I'm starting to think that I must have high levels of silicates as well but can't test to verify. I read an article this morning that said that RO/ DI units do not remove silica after a while even though they are removing the other bad stuff from tap water.

 

[paul692]

I have been using sea gel for 3weeks in the sump I have not cleaned the glass since using .it is a combo of phos guard and carbon.it removes po4 and silicates.it should do a better job in your reactor than mine does in the sump.

 

[rk4435]

I've been trying to find out if GFO or Carbon should help with Silicate too. Lots of confusing info out there?

Thanks for the info, I may look into that, my frustration is about to drive me out of the hobby.