Normtp1-
First off, write down everything in your tank- including water parameters and how many fish. Even the ones that went to the big aquarium in the sky...
From all the reading&research I've done, a smallish reef tank's water changes quite a bit (kinda unstable).
Im glad you found out,and corrected, your feeding problem. Once again, post everything in your tank to the smallest detail. Also include the filter sponges(these can be a nitrite factories,esp. if not cleaned often). How long we're your fish in your tank? Also was your live rock cured when you purchased it? I have a ton more questions but, if you would like, feel free to email me...
If I can't answer(im still learning myself!) I know trey, mr salty, beth, sammy, and every other shark can help you!
paulytee@hotmail.com
Good luck and hang in there because the people on this board know what they are talking about, its totally worth it, and we all make mistakes!!
ps- I would buy yourself a good water test kit(I use aquarium pharmaceuticals,inc. and it tests for nitrites,nitrates,PH,and ammonia)and eventually you'll add more test kits. About the brown algae, I just use a scrubber and, of course a bunch of astrea snails! I would look into adding more liverock(look for cured, esp. because or your livestock) Ive researched and it looks like 1#to 1&1/2# per gallon for reefs. Also, in my opinion, I might look into adding live sand(2-3 inch bed, instead of the crushed coral you have in your tank
Last question: What invertabrates do you have? Anything poisionous?
Keep in touch and hang in there!! What salinity do you keep your tank at? And are you having trouble with heat(weather-wise?) Paulytee-It will all be worth it in the end!!!
