brown algae

[stevetamas]

I set up a 77 gal saltwater aquarium about 4 weeks ago. I'm going through a high nitrate cylce. Infact, Its almost impossible to keep it under control. I have brown algae everywhere and it is totally out of control. What do I do?

 

[NTidd]

Your going through the "high nitrate cycle" ? Do you mean nitrite, correct me if I'm wrong, but if ammonia, and nitrites leveled out and your nitrates are high, then you cycle is done. Have you been doing water changes, and also is it brown algae or diatoms?

 

[eseow]

Your at the stage where the tank starts its algae bloom since its not stable yet. You should add snails and hermits now to help control the algae. It will probably bloom blue green algae next. It takes about 4-6 months for it to stabilize. I would only use actinic blue lighting for now.

 

[toodles]

First, don't panic!

Absolutely normal stuff going on.

Tell us about your tank......what do you have in there (sand, rocks) any livestock (fish or inverts), what exactly are your readings (ammonia, nitrite, nitrate), what kind of equipment are you using (filter, skimmer), are you feeding (or not).....that kind of stuff.....