Since I am still a NEWBIE

[ronster1]

OK
I posted in the fish forum and got my questions answered. But one of the answers gave me more questions, so I decided maybe this was the place. I have a 55 and having a green algae problem. The answers were talking about my cleaner crew. Right now I have 2 or 3 Turbo snails and approx 15-20 blue leg hermits. What is the rule of thumb for a tank of my size. Right now I have an angel, tang and clown. Assorted coral and a carpet anenome. What should I buy for my cleaner crew.
The store has reef packages. 22-50 50- 100 and so on which one should I get.
Thanks
Ronster

 

[toeknee]

First thing for anyone to ask you would be what kind of water are you using tap, RO/DI, something special?
Then to see if you have tested your water and what the readings are.

 

[ronster1]

I always use RO/DI from my lfs. All my readings are good. No ammonia, no nitrite, 10 - 15 on nitrate, ph around 8.2. Tank has been up for 14 months. I do water changes once a month about 35%. Never had the green algae before the last month and a half or so. I would still like to know about the cleaner crew as well.
Ronster

 

[lexluethar]

I would definately get more snails - I only have a 30 gallon tank and I have 5 turbo snails and a Nars (not going to try and spell that one).
Has your lights changed? What type of lights do you use? If you use T5's or any other type of lighting (which I hope you do since you have corals) the bulbs need to be changed out every 6 months to a year, depending upon the type of lighting. Old bulbs will change spectrum and could create more of an algae bloom.

 

[ronster1]

I use VHO lights. 1 - Super Actinic and 1 Actinic White I have never changed them. I guess I can get some new ones.
Ron

 

[lexluethar]

I would check online and on the manufacters website to see how long the bulbs last. My guess is they are changing/changed spectrum creating more algea growth. Have you noticed your corals not growing as much?

 

[itom37]

I'm not wild about turbo snails. Nerites are cheaper and do a heck of a job, especially for their size.

 

[ronster1]

My orals are relatively new to the tank, maybe 2 months. They have not grown at all from what I can see EXCEPT the Dragon Eyes Zoos the seem to be growing. I have an email to the manufatcurer about the life span. But I am buying some more tomorrow.
Thanks for all the help.
Ron