thread algae with PPS-pro - PPS Analysis and Feedback

helgymatt · 05-13-2008, 07:30 PM

I switched over to PPS-Pro probably two months ago and it seems since I did so I have had an increasing problem with thread algae (long strands of green algae). I remove it every few days with a test-tube cleaner so it doesn't get out of check. Is this a common experience with PPS-pro? Is this problem suggesting I'm adding too much micro solution and putting too much iron in the water? I add 6ml of each solution to my 55 gallon tank. I have CO2, high light for 7 hrs a day and eco-complete substrate. Thanks for any help!

ted30 · 05-14-2008, 11:46 AM

well now, I do pps-pro as well and I have a problem with thread algae. I have a jewel 240 and I dose 6ml trace and 6ml macro solution. I have no answers but would like to see the answers from the experts. Just out of interest what lighting do u use?

helgymatt · 05-14-2008, 01:18 PM

I have 2 - 55 watt compact fluorescents from AHsupply.com and two 2x overdriven four foot fluorescents. All are 6700k bulbs. On for 7 or 8 hours a day.

ted30 · 05-15-2008, 08:46 AM

I have a tek light luminaire with 4 54watt t5's. I originally had 8 hours total photo period, with all four on for 5 hours.I had problems with thread and fuzz algae. I changed it slightly and I think its working. 8 hour total photo period with all four on for 2 hours "noon burst". If you can independently time your lights try it something like mine. Start off with low light at the beginning and have high light for a short period in between your photo period. End the day with low light. My example: two bulbs come on at 12:00pm 108watts, 5:00pm the other 2 bulbs come on, 216 watts and off at 7:00pm and an hour left with two bulbs. I'm no expert

but its my 2cents

helgymatt · 05-15-2008, 11:21 AM

Is this what you did to solve your thread algae problem?

ted30 · 05-15-2008, 01:16 PM

In the process of solving it .... hopefully

Edward · 05-25-2008, 09:04 AM

Hi
It does take time for your plants to adjust to the new conditions. Any environmental changes cause plants to leak nutrients back to the water column and idle for a while creating an ideal situation for algae. So keep it consistent and watch for signs of new growth.

ted30 · 05-26-2008, 12:35 PM

Thanx ed! Just one question. I have pressurised co2 via a fire extinguisher, connected to a glass diffuser. The diffuser is situated under a spraybar of my external eheim filter with a Maxijet 900mp for extra circulation. The CO2 is on for 12 hours. Is this sufficent for the light I have? I know u don't aim for 30ppm co2 with pps-pro.

240 liter (64us gallon) medium to heavily planted tank
tek light 4 54 watt t5hot
108 watts 8 hours
216 watts 2 hours

Edward · 05-27-2008, 03:23 PM

About CO2 levels, sure you can have 30 ppm of CO2, but it is not necessary and not easy to maintain. Plants grow taller and weaker and require often trimming. Also fish may become stressed.

The current CO2 level you can do like this, put your aquarium water into a clean glass or porcelain cup and let sit for two days. After the two day waiting time take your aquarium water when you think you have the most CO2 dissolved. Then test both, the old and the new water samples for KH and pH. APC FAQ CO2 Table will tell you how much CO2 you have. Isn’t this more accurate?

ted30 · 05-28-2008, 10:17 AM

thanx Ed! Will do. Sorry helgymatt for hijacking your thread