Diatoms
Diatoms are microscopic cells composed of overlapping half shells of silica.
They spend their lives floating in the ocean or in the sediments.
Their silica shells, called frustules, are microscopic size and makes them hard to see for an average aquarist.
In the ocean, they form a major part of the “plant-plankton” called phytoplankton, which provides important food for the “animal-plankton” called zooplankton.
These algae spread rapidly with high nitrate levels. They are actually the fist algae to establish themselves. They form a brown slime on the gravel, rocks, decoration and aquarium glass.
As your saltwater aquarium matures, they should disappear. Scrape them away to keep a clear view of your saltwater aquarium fish when they become obvious.
Like all algae, the best way to deal with this type is by targeting its prevention. To produce their frustule and live out their lifecycle, they need abundant silicates or silicic acid.
Silica sand is a common source, so it is highly recommended that you use a limestone sand or gravel instead.
Some commercial salts for mixing marine water will also increase the levels of silicates – be sure to read the labels and know what you are adding to your water.
Also, try to keep invertebrates such as snails. They will roam the saltwater aquarium, walls, rocks and even the hard to reach spots and feed on algae.
Go to: Chlorophyta | Rhodophyta | Phaeophyta group | Cyanobacteria
Return from Diatoms to All About Algae
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