does UV impede coraline algae growth

[sheltiejazz]

Hi, question as above. I have read about reefers using UV sterilisers. Does the UV impede the growth of coraline algae on rocks? If I were to use it, when should I add this equipment? straight away from the cycling stage?

Thanks for the advice.

[hotlemond]

its the light that matters, not UV

[XPeriment 626]

coralline algae? isn't that the nice purplish pink stuff that people *want* on their rocks? or are you referring to the green and brown crap that constantly needs to be scraped off the tank glass? either way, the UV doesn't really have any impact.

UV is primarily for killing parasites and bacteria, and even then the effectiveness varies greatly depending on the brand, size and flow rate of the steriliser.

as for the algae, normal lighting in your tank (in terms of intensity and photoperiod) are what makes it grow. I use turbo snails to combat algae growth, and clean the glass often.

[sheltiejazz]

i was into fresh water planted tank before and UV light is used to kill green algae cells. that's why I am not sure if the UV used in marine tank, will it also kill the coralline algae.

[terryansimon]

coraline algae grew all over my tank, even though the UV light was on for 24/7 (=

[Archilles19]

Does it matter....?....cause even with UV....some tank had an outbreak of algea....even white spot still exist......I know cause I was using one....but in the case of coralline.....I don think UV will have much effect on its growth.....good lighting...eg MH+Atinic......stable calcium level in water.....good quality salt...especially Cor*&life....which some reefer swear on it for coralline growth....me included....good filtration+skimming as usch that nuisance algea don thrive...in no time...WALA...coralline lah brudder.....!!!!!!

[Lester]

hmmmm ....

i see............