Brown algae developing on the sand.

[matt2364]

Could this cause any detrimental effects? What causes the bacteria, too many nitrites or nitrates or something like that? I am just confused to how I am getting all of this algae and stuff with such low nitrite and nitrate levels.

 

[michaeltx]

its not a bad sign everything in your tank is covered in bacteria sometimes it grows faster in some areas causeing this stringy look to the tank. Adding a bigger clean up crew of snails will help keep it cleaned up.
the diatoms and this is actually part of the natural cycle of the tank and nothing to worry about. there are some bad algaes like hair algaes and bubble algaes but in general youll now when they show up because they spread super fast.
a daily cleaning of the glass is usually necessary in all tanks though.
Mike

 

[forsfed50]

How does a diatom look different from a brown algae on the sand ?

 

[chub]

my sand is getting worse everyday after lights are on. Are 10% weekly WC enough?