[AUAV8R]

The older leaves on my smaller plants seem to turn dark on the edges and looks to be some sort of algae. It only affects my small plants and I have struggled with it for some time now. I thought maybe it was too much light without CO2 but I had this problem when my 55gallon was running with just one t8 shop light. These plants are now in a standard 75gallon with 2 t5ho lights 12inches above the surface. I now think it may be some sort of fert deficiency. The tank has been running for two months now and I used osmocote with a clay base as well as flourite and root tabs. I also dose with flourish and Metricide daily. Has anyone else had this problem?

http://www.plantedtank.net/forums/pHosting/f/6805_4c.jpg

http://www.plantedtank.net/forums/pHosting/f/6804_3c.jpg

http://www.plantedtank.net/forums/pHosting/f/6803_2c.jpg

http://www.plantedtank.net/forums/pHosting/f/6802_1c.jpg

 

[ScottFish]

I think you have the making of some BGA --which is actually a bacteria (in fact, one of the oldest bacterias on the planet). Tough stuff to get rid of. It likes to show up where the water flow is least. I'm growing a health colony on my gravel that I barely keep in check with constant water changes. I did use antibiotics once, and it did knock it out for awhile. For now, remove the stuff by hand, up your water changes, and you might want to consider changing your bulbs --T8s start declining rapidly after a year.

 

[AUAV8R]

I am definitely battling BGA as well but this stuff will not come off of the leaves. I’m not sure what it is but I am just about ready to take all of my smaller plants out…

 

[kamikazi]

That looks like brown diatom algae. Ottos will eat it.

As far as dealing with BGA, THIS THREAD is your friend.

 

[Crispino L Ramos]

It looks like diatoms - commonly seen in newly set up tanks or after a major re-planting and severe stirring of the substrate.