Algae good? or bad?

[bkall4u]

I am having a slight algae "outbreak" and I was wondering what kind of effect algae has on a tank? Are there certain types that are benefical? Or should I do my best to get rid of all of it?

 

[bang guy]

I like the looks of some macro algae in the tank. The stringy stuff is unsightly to me but it does remove excess nutrients from the water.

 

[carrie1429]

It all depends on what kind of algea. Some is good to have and some isn't, could you tell us what it looks like? Is it brown, green, ect?

 

[bkall4u]

The majority of it is a brown algae, and I'm assuming that is because I started the cycle with tap water shame on me. But there is also some green algae growing on the substrate.

 

[clarkiiboi]

If you are just getting started as your post said then the brown algea is most likely a diatom bloom, it happens with all new tanks reguardless of the water used. It will go away on its own. The green algea could be a few things, but from just starting your tank my question is are your lights on for long periods? I have mine on only 8hours a day. Just a thought.