Small Algae Problem

[moist]

hey iv got a 55 gal. setup, with som baby live plant sand some driftwood. i have had the set up for about 3 weeks now, and have added and extra light to bring out colours and help the plants since it is quite a deep tank. I now am running 3 16in. 15 w. full spectrum lights.

now i have noticed that there has been a bit of algae growth on the underside of one of my pieces of driftwood. the algae is about half inch long an is really just in a little patch. now i am new to this and i can not identify the algae.

my question is, will this develop into a problem? i hav not seen any spreading. and second would it be wise to add an algae eater so young into the life of my tank to try to combat it?

any response would be greatly appreciated. thx.

 

[George Farmer]

Welcome to the forum moist. Firstly I wouldn't worry too much if the algae's not spreading. I imagine the algae is brown algae and is very common in new set-ups. Adding algae eaters are a good idea, Otocinclus (Otos) love soft brown algae. If your tank is planted heavily enough then you will be able add a group straight away - the plants should cope with the waste proving they are growing well. Many planted "gurus" never cycle their tanks as the plants perform all the necessary filtration from the start. They stock initially with plenty of algae eaters and do not feed them for a while.

One point is that if your tank is a 55G lit with 45W of light then you will be limited to only low-light plants - especially if it's deep. Suitable species may include some Crypts, Anubias, Java fern, Java moss and possible a hardy Amazon Sword if you're lucky.

For a detailed explanation on algae then read the Algae topic pinned at the top of this forum.

Hope this helps.