'hairy' green algea in overflow box...

[jtkld75]

does anyone know why this is appearing and how i can get rid of it, is it safe to put a snail or something in there? thanks.

 

[boomper]

Its probably due to the high water flow. I wouldn't put a snail in there, but you could probably remove it manually with a sponge or something.

 

[jtkld75]

Its due to the high water flow? I thought high flow reduced algea? Just wondering(not complaining) on why its contained in the box only, not in the sump or tank, just the overflows..

 

[bang guy]

Bryopsis likes that type of area.
Can you just scrape it off?

 

[jtkld75]

Yes, I can scrape it off. I guess I was moreso looking for the 'cause' of the problem. I have alot of chaeto in my sump, but it seems i still have phosphates, ie cyano . any thoughts?

 

[bang guy]

Is the Chaeto growing fast enough so that you can harvest a handful every week?
Bryopsis is one of those alga that can compete with Chaeto.

 

[jtkld75]

it seems to be growing pretty fast. I will remove that algea asap though. One other problem im having with the chaeto is that it is inthe middle of my sump and seems to trap all the 'crap' that comes floating by. Is it best to remove this crud-covered chaeto?
Josh

 

[bang guy]

Remove the oldest chaeto. It will contain a higher percentage of "bad stuff" than new growth.
A population of the common pink Bristleworms or mini-brittle starfish should be introduced to the Chaeto. They will eat most of the detritus that gets caught. Export them along with the Chaeto.

 

[ohioreef]

jtkld75,
I have the exact same issue (right down to the chaeto collecting the debris that comes into the refuge) and was thinking of posting a question!!

 

[jtkld75]

Well, I cleaned out the overflows the best i could, and removed some cheato that was debris covered. The stuff in the overflow came on pretty fast though. It looks like ill be cleaniung it often. Can anyone tell me What causes this stuff to grow, and how it can be eliminated. btw, just so were talking about the same thing. it grows in like 'heads' and is attatched at the bottom.
Josh

 

[reefraff]

I get the same stuff in my overflow but usually find it infested with pods. I chuck it in the main tank for the tanges, they get some meat with their veggies.