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[APD] Algaeometer
Hi, all. I am using the "Barr method" with good results in my 29 gallon
tank. As my tank has changed I have seen many different algaes pop up. I
started with BBA, then it went to a green, fluffy algae. Filamentous algaes
slowly took over and finally BGA and Green Water moved in. With each new
algae I noticed the older algaes disappear.
That, along with my playing with nutrient dosing has led me to wonder if
algaes can be used as a method for dosing. In other words, is there any
correlation between alga species and nutrient imbalance?
For example, if one has BBA does it mean that Nitrates or Phosphates are too
low or too high? I know Tom keeps hammering home that excessive nutrients
do not cause algae, but then I wonder what does? Does an imbalance of
nutrients cause it? If all nutrients are available in excess of the plant's
needs, but still in balance with one another that keeps the algaes under
control, as proven by the "Barr Method". However, if one doesn't dose
correctly (i.e. too much /too little KNO3 or KH2PO4) then I am guessing
algae will result. Which brings me back to my original question: can we
judge how correct our nutrient balance is by the resulting algae, and to be
more specific, can we judge specific nutrient excesses/deficincies by the
TYPE of alga present?
Maybe Im way off, but I doubt that the appearance of algaes is as chaotic as
it seems.
Hoping I'm not waaaay out there,
Reggie Bustinza
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