brown algae

[mariog]

I seem to have a lot of brown algae all over my sandbed and some on the glass. Is this normal for a tank that is cycling?

The tank has been up for 1 1/2 weeks. I have been turning on the lights for about 12 hours at a time.

Will it go away over time or should I get something for it?

Thanks

[reefnetworth]

leave the lights off! and yes, its part of the cycle known as Diatoms.

[sps1-2-b]

I agree definitely diatom stage of the cycling

[mutateddogbone]

yes is more than likely diatoms and they will go away after tank is fully cycles which can sometimes take 3 months

[mariog]

How long should I leave the lights off for? Like when should I start turning them on?

It has been up for a little over a week and a half.

[Li\/EWiRE]

Buy a magfloat. It will be your best friend to keep Diatoms off the glass. You can turn your light back on just cut down the time its on. YYou will most likley get Cyano algae next. You can get rid of that easy with Cyano remover. And get a good clean up crew once all water levels are in check.

[ZoaFan08]

You will get diatoms even if you do not turn on your lights during cycle. I have been cycling my new tank for 2+ months and I have diatom algae all over my rocks and sand and my tank has never seen a light during its cycle.

[mariog]

thanks everyone. will do.