Coral Algae vs Cyano

[KimPossible]

How can I tell the difference between these two when they are first forming. I know one is an algae and one is a bacteria.


I have 2 new red patched on my live rock, it is not spreading just becoming a deeper red. My tungan arrived with Coral Algae already on it, the new spots are turning the same deep red.... I just want to make sure.

I have good flow in all areas of my tank.

TIA - Kim

 

[amstar15]

by what i can tell to tell the difference is if you sway your hand or use a powerhead to push water across it. if the red moves or comes off its not coraline alage. but thats not an expert opinion.

 

[Navarre]

newbie15 is right, if its cyano then it will simply brush away in a strong flow. Coraline wont.