Black Out Procedure
Transcript
This video covers one of the simplest ways to manage fast-growing algae in your Living Oceans aquarium, the 48-hour blackout.
Fast-growing algae can appear for a few reasons.
That may include:
- a new aquarium in the first few weeks
- excess nutrients
- reduced maintenance
- livestock loss
- temporary imbalance in the ecosystem
You may notice:
- brown algae
- red algae
- film forming across sand and rock
To help manage it, use a 48-hour blackout.
The process is simple:
- leave all aquarium systems running
- locate the cable labelled light
- unplug only the light
- leave the aquarium dark for 48 hours
During this time, the fast-growing algae loses access to light while beneficial bacteria continue working.
After 48 hours:
- reconnect the light
- allow the programmed lighting schedule to resume
- observe the reef over the following days
You’ll often notice:
- cleaner sand
- reduced algae growth
- improved overall appearance
Some algae may remain and that’s okay.
The ecosystem is still rebalancing.
If algae returns quickly after the blackout, consider a bacterial support program rather than repeating the process immediately.
Because corals rely on light to photosynthesise, we recommend:
- no more than one 48-hour blackout per month
- only use as needed
Monitor the aquarium over the next few days and let the ecosystem continue to stabilise.
Thanks for watching.