Talk me back from the ledge. Help with my tank!

Good luck KC, I think you can get it back to a managable state. And I think you'll get the love back! Remember dont fret the little stuf and tackle one problem at a time.

 

KC,

After our move from Key West to Delray my tank went crazy. I had bubble algae everywhere and over 100 aiptasia. I knew it was from the move, but it bugged me that my fuge wasn't out-competing the bubble algae. Then I went back to a 5500k 27w CFL and my chaeto took off!

I added 5 small emerald crabs, today I have to look real hard for bubble algae.

At the same time I added 3 peppermint shrimp, today I see 5 aiptasia left.

Both of these inverts have risks associated with adding them, but for me it was totally worth it and I haven't seen them harassing corals like my peppermints in the past have done.

As far as changing out live rock goes, there is good chance the new rock will eventually develop the same problems you are having now, so I'd keep what you got and go with peppermints and emeralds.

How well does the macro in your fuge grow? It sounds like you need a big ball chaeto with 16 hours per day of 5500-6500k. Sorry, I don't remember your fuge setup.

Hope some of this helps, don't sell your tank.

 

KC my Friend, it was your big kind hart and Matt's quick thinking that has kept me here
i hope now i can return the favor. yes i think some new live rock would go a long way in ridding your tank of the pests you describe. as far as the overwhelming maintenance, have you looked to see if there is a fellow reefer with a kind hart as yours in your area that can give a hand for a few months till its back to a manageable state for you.
i do understand how health problems can get you behind in maintenance and make it all feel so overwhelming. i have been there.
but we all know this is an addiction and selling would only sadden you,
so please stay with it, i know you have the hart to overcome this and stick with it till your tank shines like you once again.

 

You can't treat corals or any other invert with OST... that would be fatal.

 

He did say to treat in a separate container.....and you wouldn't treat the rocks that had coral attached.
I'd add one other treatement done in conjunction with the hypo-salinity....use a container that has a lid and blocks all light to starve the pest nems and bubble algae of life giving light.

 

Thanks for the tips. Helpful to know I'm not alone in the disastrous tanks!! Glad yours has cleared up.

The macro in my fuge was doing ok until my main tank turned to utter crap. Then it died off. My chaeto is doing well though.

 

Kacy, I've been through the same exact thing. Try removing most of the worst rocks and replacing them. I never had a problem with this.