GFO Feeding my hair algae??

[Beta173]

Am I off base or could my GFO be feeding my hair algae. GFO (Granular Ferrous Oxide) is iron rust. Isn't iron bad in the aquarium because it helps feed the algae?

I am just curious.

 

[bjohanson1234]

The rust binds phosphates which feed algae. However, if it hasnt been changed in a while, it will become saturated with the phosphates and start leaching them back into the system.

 

[ccCapt]

+1 bj
It's vital GFO is changed out regularly. Depending on your phosphate levels, it's good for 4-6 weeks at the most.

 

[andysgirl8800]

Also, it should be in a reactor, or in a media bag in an area of medium flow to keep the granules from sticking together and becoming ineffective.

 

[Beta173]

Thanks, I had just herd that Iron can feed algae and since I have a reactor with Iron in it I figured I would ask the question.

 

[bjohanson1234]

True but you have to remember that it is Iron Oxide. Not the iron ion that would be floating around in solution. It is chemically a different compound.