Which steps do you take to minimize algae in a new tank setup? I haven't had to start a new tank in a while, so good to do a refresher.
Some things I've done:
1) start with a shorter photo period
2) start with high growth stem plants which suck up nutrients quickly (even if you are going with slower growing plants long term)
3) use substrate fert tabs and minimize extra ferts in the water column (I do this by using PPS Pro fert dosing now, instead of EI dosing)
4) Frequent water changes
5) Start with a lower bioload until the tank is more established
6) Use Seachem Excel, which seems to help suppress algae
Some things I've done:
1) start with a shorter photo period
2) start with high growth stem plants which suck up nutrients quickly (even if you are going with slower growing plants long term)
3) use substrate fert tabs and minimize extra ferts in the water column (I do this by using PPS Pro fert dosing now, instead of EI dosing)
4) Frequent water changes
5) Start with a lower bioload until the tank is more established
6) Use Seachem Excel, which seems to help suppress algae