Diatoms and Dirty Reef Sand! Help!

[newfishfiend08]

Hi,
I have a 65 gallon tank that has completely cycled all my levels are normal and everything is running smoothly. I just bought my first protien skimmer as I want to start getting into a reef system. My problem is however diatoms. Occasionally I'll get a bloom that will cover my sand and glass. I've been trying putting phosphate sponge in my canister filter ( I change it regularly to ensure it doesn't become a nitrite factory). I also just purchased a used RO filter but am having a hard time setting it up. Does anyone have any suggestions on how to keep the diatoms down? Also, does anyone have any suggestions how to keep the sand clean...my vacume filter and my clean up crew isn't doing the job.

 

[vince-1961]

eliminate diatomes by eliminating silicates. No more tap water for you!

 

[tomato clown]

This is actually a good question. I have the same minor issue and I only use RO/DI

 

[b0b82]

How old is your tank? What kind of sand Home Depot or playsand? Beach sand? all are IMO not good.

 

[spiderwoman]

As soon as you get your water to be RO water, the diatoms will slowly disappear. it's a normal thing for new tanks so I wouldn't worry about it much after you get better water.

 

[dmyers557]

Diatoms is normal in a new tank. Stop using tap water!!!!! Probably your main cause. How much flow do you have?