Mushroom splitting???

mangelo · 08/18/2008, 10:40 PM

I got this green mushroom last Thursday. When I got it it looked like there was one mushroom on each side with a longer piece connecting the two. Now it looks like that piece is falling and 'dying' off.

Is this how they split? Does that center piece not live or do I have another problem?

masonicman · 08/19/2008, 05:13 AM

Most of the time that does not happen. Check your parameters. If they are fine then don't worry, shrooms multiply like Bay Bay kids. You will have more then desired as long as your water quality is right.

Also this might be of your topic. I notice alot of green algea in your picture. You might want to check your phosphates. Corals are very sensitive to the water quality. Do you have a protein skimmer? If not..... then that's something that you would want to purchase now that you are starting to keep corals.

mangelo · 08/19/2008, 07:20 AM

Yes that is algae. I do have a protein skimmer, but the algae is just ruthless!! I've ordered some snails and hermits to try and control it.

How can I get rid of the phosphates?

masonicman · 08/19/2008, 07:34 AM

Well phosphates can come from alot of things. Do you use RO/DI water. Over feeding can causes it. How low do you run your lights can cause alot of algea? You have to find out exactly what you are doing. Tell about all of you equipment? I can say one thing that you should get rid of is that canister filter. It is a garanteed nitrate producer. I had one and eventually got rid of it because of high nitrates.

I have a UV sterilizer, use RO/DI water, I run phos ban in a small filter and do water changes every week. I don't over feed also.

mangelo · 08/19/2008, 07:50 AM

I run my 250w MH for 8 hours and the 4 x 54w T5 for 12 hours. I don't have an RO / DI which it looks like this is going to be my next investment. So many people are suggesting that.

If I replace the canister what do I get? The canister has a built-in uv sterilizer which I thought was pretty convenient. Can any canister media help control the nitrates?

How much water do you change ever week? I was going to do once a month

crvz · 08/19/2008, 08:16 AM

you may want to look into a phosphate reactor and media, that may help for now, but really you'll want to eliminate the nutrient load in the tank (which is fueling the algae). I'd do a 10-15% water change every week if your having problems like yours. You really can't do too much, and the more the better until the algae is under control (I still do 10% every 2 weeks with my setup).

masonicman · 08/19/2008, 09:06 AM

You def have to get a RO/DI system. My brown algea problem did not stop until I started using RO/DI water.

I do 10 gallons EVERY week.
I have a protein skimmer
HOB refugium with cheato in it.
Very small filter with phos ban and purigen constantly running in it.
Plenty of flow

Can any canister media help control the nitrates?
From my experience. NO... you have to eliminate the source.

Your canister filter? Does it have a flow control for the UV?. UV sterilizers are not effective when the water is passing across the light fast.

If you have a good PS then all you need is that and the live rock will take of the filtration.

How is your temp.

mangelo · 08/19/2008, 09:57 AM

Temp hovers around 80 - 82 when the MH kick on. Over night I think it is around 79.

There is no flow control around the UV.

I was enjoying this hobby about 4 weeks ago. It seems like everyday I find out there is something that I'm not doing. I think the LFS around here are just interested in their $$ and nothing else!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

masonicman · 08/19/2008, 10:53 AM

Yes that can be true with some LFS. I learned that. That's why I ask on this forum if I'm not sure before I make big or even small purchases.

Yes fish only is much easier. I been through that everyday thing you mentioned. Coral keep requires much more care with the water. Don't get discouraged. Just take your time with adding the corals.

What type PS to you have?

I got this UV..... very inexpensive base on other ones I've seen. It works great.
http://www.aquatraders.com/odyssea18...terilizer.aspx

mangelo · 08/19/2008, 10:57 AM

Hey. That looks like a nice UV. Can I put that right in my tank? I have no where else I could put one.

I have the Red Sea Prizm. I know, I know, but it seems to do a pretty good job on my 75.

What do you think?

masonicman · 08/19/2008, 11:04 AM

No that UV is a hang off the back or it can lay on the bottom of you cabinet. It has 2 positions. Mines lay on a ledge behind my tank. My family room has this ledge that goes around 2 walls of the room which was perfect for keep my power stips and other equipment out of sight.

The PS will do with a few softies but the more you get then you will need to upgrade. And believe me coral keeping becomes addictive.

mangelo · 08/19/2008, 12:36 PM

Oh I know. I am getting there already and it's hard to stop. Believe me I am very greatful for this site. All of the conflicting info from the LFS was driving me crazy!!

Can anyone suggest an affordable RO / DI? How about any from here?

http://www.purelyh2o.com/home.php?cat=249

How do I know if my PS is doing the job? I have to empty it once a week and there is some nasty stuff in there!!

masonicman · 08/19/2008, 01:02 PM

That's funny that you pick this vendor. I have this one from purelyh2O and it works great I purchased a better TDS meter from them instead of counting on the inline one that comes with it.

The V Series 75 GPD RO DI System

mangelo · 08/19/2008, 01:10 PM

That is funny because I was looking at the EXACT SAME ONE!

I love this hobby, but I may go broke in the process.

masonicman · 08/19/2008, 01:16 PM

I know.... But once you get the tank going with next to no problems and minimun testing. Then it's just maintaining that's all.
Then the toy purchasing starts to make your job easier. Like automatic water top offs, thermal controllers, PH and salinity digital meters. I can go on and on.

mangelo · 08/19/2008, 01:20 PM

How long do the membranes / filters last? Where do you get replacements?

masonicman · 08/19/2008, 01:26 PM

I got mine I believe in Nov. of 07 and I have not replace them yet. I have made a lot of water and my TDS reading is still at 0. You can get the replacement from most good LFS. I plan to purchase mine right from purely.

mangelo · 08/19/2008, 01:38 PM

How are my Astreas gonna do once I start using RO/DI?

masonicman · 08/20/2008, 07:19 AM

Everything will be fine when you start using RO/DI water. You tank will improve over all. Not over night, but one day you will say" hey I do have this problem no more or hey this level is always on point. By then you will have forgotten that you switched water and you will be involved with somthing else involving your tanks.

08/18/2008, 10:40 PM	#1
mangelo Registered Member Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: Ohio Posts: 480	Mushroom splitting??? I got this green mushroom last Thursday. When I got it it looked like there was one mushroom on each side with a longer piece connecting the two. Now it looks like that piece is falling and 'dying' off. Is this how they split? Does that center piece not live or do I have another problem?

08/19/2008, 05:13 AM	#2
masonicman Registered Member Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: NJ Posts: 1,313	Most of the time that does not happen. Check your parameters. If they are fine then don't worry, shrooms multiply like Bay Bay kids. You will have more then desired as long as your water quality is right. Also this might be of your topic. I notice alot of green algea in your picture. You might want to check your phosphates. Corals are very sensitive to the water quality. Do you have a protein skimmer? If not..... then that's something that you would want to purchase now that you are starting to keep corals. __________________ It is better to ask for forgiveness then to ask for permission.......... Current Tank Info: 75 gal mixed reef, 216w LED, Remora Pro skimmer, HOB fuge, 400w htr, ATO RO/DI, 90lbs LR and 1" SB. Last edited by masonicman; 08/19/2008 at 05:22 AM.

08/19/2008, 07:34 AM	#4
masonicman Registered Member Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: NJ Posts: 1,313	Well phosphates can come from alot of things. Do you use RO/DI water. Over feeding can causes it. How low do you run your lights can cause alot of algea? You have to find out exactly what you are doing. Tell about all of you equipment? I can say one thing that you should get rid of is that canister filter. It is a garanteed nitrate producer. I had one and eventually got rid of it because of high nitrates. I have a UV sterilizer, use RO/DI water, I run phos ban in a small filter and do water changes every week. I don't over feed also. __________________ It is better to ask for forgiveness then to ask for permission.......... Current Tank Info: 75 gal mixed reef, 216w LED, Remora Pro skimmer, HOB fuge, 400w htr, ATO RO/DI, 90lbs LR and 1" SB.

08/19/2008, 08:16 AM	#6
crvz Team RC Member Join Date: Jul 2005 Location: houstonia Posts: 7,989	you may want to look into a phosphate reactor and media, that may help for now, but really you'll want to eliminate the nutrient load in the tank (which is fueling the algae). I'd do a 10-15% water change every week if your having problems like yours. You really can't do too much, and the more the better until the algae is under control (I still do 10% every 2 weeks with my setup). __________________ -Chris- You don't win friends with salad. "Look! They're trying to learn for free!" ... "Use your phony guns as clubs!" Current Tank Info: rectangluar? wet?

08/19/2008, 09:06 AM	#7
masonicman Registered Member Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: NJ Posts: 1,313	You def have to get a RO/DI system. My brown algea problem did not stop until I started using RO/DI water. I do 10 gallons EVERY week. I have a protein skimmer HOB refugium with cheato in it. Very small filter with phos ban and purigen constantly running in it. Plenty of flow Can any canister media help control the nitrates? From my experience. NO... you have to eliminate the source. Your canister filter? Does it have a flow control for the UV?. UV sterilizers are not effective when the water is passing across the light fast. If you have a good PS then all you need is that and the live rock will take of the filtration. How is your temp. __________________ It is better to ask for forgiveness then to ask for permission.......... Current Tank Info: 75 gal mixed reef, 216w LED, Remora Pro skimmer, HOB fuge, 400w htr, ATO RO/DI, 90lbs LR and 1" SB.

08/19/2008, 07:20 AM	#3
mangelo Registered Member Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: Ohio Posts: 480	Yes that is algae. I do have a protein skimmer, but the algae is just ruthless!! I've ordered some snails and hermits to try and control it. How can I get rid of the phosphates?

08/19/2008, 07:50 AM	#5
mangelo Registered Member Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: Ohio Posts: 480	I run my 250w MH for 8 hours and the 4 x 54w T5 for 12 hours. I don't have an RO / DI which it looks like this is going to be my next investment. So many people are suggesting that. If I replace the canister what do I get? The canister has a built-in uv sterilizer which I thought was pretty convenient. Can any canister media help control the nitrates? How much water do you change ever week? I was going to do once a month

08/19/2008, 09:57 AM	#8
mangelo Registered Member Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: Ohio Posts: 480	Temp hovers around 80 - 82 when the MH kick on. Over night I think it is around 79. There is no flow control around the UV. I was enjoying this hobby about 4 weeks ago. It seems like everyday I find out there is something that I'm not doing. I think the LFS around here are just interested in their $$ and nothing else!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

08/19/2008, 10:53 AM	#9
masonicman Registered Member Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: NJ Posts: 1,313	Yes that can be true with some LFS. I learned that. That's why I ask on this forum if I'm not sure before I make big or even small purchases. Yes fish only is much easier. I been through that everyday thing you mentioned. Coral keep requires much more care with the water. Don't get discouraged. Just take your time with adding the corals. What type PS to you have? I got this UV..... very inexpensive base on other ones I've seen. It works great. http://www.aquatraders.com/odyssea18...terilizer.aspx __________________ It is better to ask for forgiveness then to ask for permission.......... Current Tank Info: 75 gal mixed reef, 216w LED, Remora Pro skimmer, HOB fuge, 400w htr, ATO RO/DI, 90lbs LR and 1" SB. Last edited by masonicman; 08/19/2008 at 10:59 AM.

08/19/2008, 10:57 AM	#10
mangelo Registered Member Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: Ohio Posts: 480	Hey. That looks like a nice UV. Can I put that right in my tank? I have no where else I could put one. I have the Red Sea Prizm. I know, I know, but it seems to do a pretty good job on my 75. What do you think?

08/19/2008, 11:04 AM	#11
masonicman Registered Member Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: NJ Posts: 1,313	No that UV is a hang off the back or it can lay on the bottom of you cabinet. It has 2 positions. Mines lay on a ledge behind my tank. My family room has this ledge that goes around 2 walls of the room which was perfect for keep my power stips and other equipment out of sight. The PS will do with a few softies but the more you get then you will need to upgrade. And believe me coral keeping becomes addictive. __________________ It is better to ask for forgiveness then to ask for permission.......... Current Tank Info: 75 gal mixed reef, 216w LED, Remora Pro skimmer, HOB fuge, 400w htr, ATO RO/DI, 90lbs LR and 1" SB.

08/19/2008, 12:36 PM	#12
mangelo Registered Member Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: Ohio Posts: 480	Oh I know. I am getting there already and it's hard to stop. Believe me I am very greatful for this site. All of the conflicting info from the LFS was driving me crazy!! Can anyone suggest an affordable RO / DI? How about any from here? http://www.purelyh2o.com/home.php?cat=249 How do I know if my PS is doing the job? I have to empty it once a week and there is some nasty stuff in there!!

08/19/2008, 01:02 PM	#13
masonicman Registered Member Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: NJ Posts: 1,313	That's funny that you pick this vendor. I have this one from purelyh2O and it works great I purchased a better TDS meter from them instead of counting on the inline one that comes with it. The V Series 75 GPD RO DI System __________________ It is better to ask for forgiveness then to ask for permission.......... Current Tank Info: 75 gal mixed reef, 216w LED, Remora Pro skimmer, HOB fuge, 400w htr, ATO RO/DI, 90lbs LR and 1" SB. Last edited by masonicman; 08/19/2008 at 01:08 PM.

08/19/2008, 01:10 PM	#14
mangelo Registered Member Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: Ohio Posts: 480	That is funny because I was looking at the EXACT SAME ONE! I love this hobby, but I may go broke in the process.

08/19/2008, 01:16 PM	#15
masonicman Registered Member Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: NJ Posts: 1,313	I know.... But once you get the tank going with next to no problems and minimun testing. Then it's just maintaining that's all. Then the toy purchasing starts to make your job easier. Like automatic water top offs, thermal controllers, PH and salinity digital meters. I can go on and on. __________________ It is better to ask for forgiveness then to ask for permission.......... Current Tank Info: 75 gal mixed reef, 216w LED, Remora Pro skimmer, HOB fuge, 400w htr, ATO RO/DI, 90lbs LR and 1" SB.

08/19/2008, 01:20 PM	#16
mangelo Registered Member Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: Ohio Posts: 480	How long do the membranes / filters last? Where do you get replacements?

08/19/2008, 01:26 PM	#17
masonicman Registered Member Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: NJ Posts: 1,313	I got mine I believe in Nov. of 07 and I have not replace them yet. I have made a lot of water and my TDS reading is still at 0. You can get the replacement from most good LFS. I plan to purchase mine right from purely. __________________ It is better to ask for forgiveness then to ask for permission.......... Current Tank Info: 75 gal mixed reef, 216w LED, Remora Pro skimmer, HOB fuge, 400w htr, ATO RO/DI, 90lbs LR and 1" SB.

08/19/2008, 01:38 PM	#18
mangelo Registered Member Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: Ohio Posts: 480	How are my Astreas gonna do once I start using RO/DI?

08/20/2008, 07:19 AM	#19
masonicman Registered Member Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: NJ Posts: 1,313	Everything will be fine when you start using RO/DI water. You tank will improve over all. Not over night, but one day you will say" hey I do have this problem no more or hey this level is always on point. By then you will have forgotten that you switched water and you will be involved with somthing else involving your tanks. __________________ It is better to ask for forgiveness then to ask for permission.......... Current Tank Info: 75 gal mixed reef, 216w LED, Remora Pro skimmer, HOB fuge, 400w htr, ATO RO/DI, 90lbs LR and 1" SB.