Weird Algea!

[ilove2ride]

I have this thick, reddish brown algea that covers one area of my tank weekly, and only on the live sand and part of the glass. I try to get rid of it weekly. What is this!? My tank is 8 months old, there's more info @ my signature.
Thanks,
Heather

 

[musipilot]

Cynobacteria.

 

[marcandkelly]

I am currently dealing with the same thing. Not much fun at all!
Have you checked your phosphates and nitrate levels lately, how old are your lights and how long do they run for?
Good luck to you.

 

[ilove2ride]

No, I have not checked for phosphates...
the lights are 8 mos old, also. The nitrate is low and has been tested by me and my LFS recently. The lights are on for about 12 hours... I should cut that down, to think of it. Maybe I should also lower my temp. It's at 78 degrees.
Thanks
Heather