Using a diatom filter in newly cycled tank

[gdown]

Is it advisable to use a diatom filter in a cycling tank?
I have brown algee in the tank (75) should I stir up the sand and use the diatom to remove some of the algee?

 

[surfnturf]

You can use the diatom filter in the tank, if you want. I don't think it's necessary. I would not stir the sand, you'll disturb the bacteria and cause a longer cycle.

 

[gdown]

so just using the diatom without stirring anything up is alright?
Will it help with the brown algae?

 

[surfnturf]

I wouldn't sweat the algae, just get some snails and hermits to clean it up. Is the water cloudy? I guess really, we need to know what you have for equipment, what's in the tank and what are your plans for the tank (reef, FO, FOWLR, etc) Also need to know your water params.

 

[gdown]

75 gal Perfecto
Eheim pro II filter 2028
Remora hang on skimmer
started with dry sand
have 9 assorted damsels for about 5 1/2 weeks
Ammonia 0
PH 8.2
Nitrite 1.0
Nitrate 10

 

[gdown]

oh yeah FO

 

[surfnturf]

looks like a good setup and your cycle is almost complete. How deep is the sand bed? Hopefully, you did 4-5 inches, deeper the better really. If you did, you should be all set. Are you planning on sticking with the damsels for a while? Some live rock will add a lot of color and interest to the tank as well as helping with the biofiltration and the corraline algae on the LR will compete with the algae you don't want and reduce it in the tank. As soon as your nitrite drops to zero, pick up some hermit crabs and maybe some snails. Watch out if you get turbo snails, if they fall off the glass and land on their back they die.

 

[gdown]

I was just heading out the door to pick up some live rock from my lfs when I decided to check the thread. Tks for the replies and the advice. Damsels for the time being until the tank is fully set. Then a clown trigger to start.

 

[gdown]

I was just heading out the door to pick up some live rock from my lfs when I decided to check the thread. Tks for the replies and the advice. Damsels for the time being until the tank is fully set. Then a clown trigger to start.