Detritus on Sand

[joejoe]

Well my cycle has been over for over a month now, but I still get this brown dust on my sand....sorta looks like diatoms. I have a clean up crew of 12 nassarius, 12 blue legs, and 2 turbos for my 38 gallon. Do I need more cleaners, such as sand sifters for the tank? Any suggestions would greatly be appreciated!!

 

[karajay]

Improve your circulation. A powerhead a few inches up from the bottom may work wonders.

 

[thomas712]

Improved circulation can help but what about.
Active protien skimming.
Water source, - do not use tap water.
phosphates? Nitrates?
Is your filtration up to snuff?
Are your filter pads clean, if you use them.
Many more possiblilities.
Thomas

 

[joejoe]

I use a protein skimmer that is up to par, my trates are at a good level and I use RO water. I may try a PH close to the floor but my anemone probably won't like that. Any other suggestions??

 

[stapler]

Hopefully those bluelegs dont get your snails!

 

[kyle10]

joejoe
i had the same problem..get this fish called a gold head sleeper goby..this little guy got my whole sandbed clean in two days in my 150 gal tank...all he does is pick the sand up in his mouth and run it through his gills..worked great..heres a pick of him.

 

[joejoe]

Oh I've seen those little guys. Don't lawnmower blennies sift the sand through their gills as well??