Keep Getting Bacteria Blooms

[baker360360]

I think it's bacteria blooms. Had them frequently. But this time no ammonia or nitrite but nitrate is at 50. Usually 15-20.

Only explanation I can think of is over feeding. The pellets seem to sink to fast for the cichlids to catch.

Also been adding plant ferts for the first time

 

[BerryAttack]

probably the plant ferts, and long lighting times.
 
have lighting for around 6-8 hours, depends on how long you want it...
over feeding.. IMO fish should be only fed 3 times a week, help to prevent excess food and algae blooms, and maintenance.. but weekly water changes are recommended.
if you feed only 3 times a week, the fish will eat the pellets before going to the bottom. and when feeding only feed as much as the fish can eat in 2 mins.

 

[baker360360]

probably the plant ferts, and long lighting times. have lighting for around 6-8 hours, depends on how long you want it...over feeding.. IMO fish should be only fed 3 times a week, help to prevent excess food and algae blooms, and maintenance.. but weekly water changes are recommended.if you feed only 3 times a week, the fish will eat the pellets before going to the bottom. and when feeding only feed as much as the fish can eat in 2 mins.

Lights stay on no longer than 6 hrs. I have no algae in tank. I will lower feeding

 

[BerryAttack]

then, it is over feeding.

 

[baker360360]

I've droped it to once daily feeding only about half dozen pellets at a time untill the fish stop catching them as they sink. So no food is going uneaten. Hopefully I should see water clear up and nitrates return back to around 20.