CO2 and Low Light

[stussy28]

I have a 10 gallon tank with a 19w flourescent hood over it. I do not dose any fertilizers and my tank is in a corner and should not receive sunlight. I have a problem with diatoms. I have 3 otos but it seems like they won't touch it. I have read that adding CO2 can help get rid of it. Can I do DIY CO2 with low light?

[petluvr]

How long has the tank been setup and how long do you leave the light on?

[stussy28]

The tank has been set up for 4 months, but this problem just began to occur when I left my tank at college for Thanksgiving break. I came back and the water was gross and my plants were covered in some material (I don't think it was algae). I have it on a timer for 9 hours a day and have been doing 2 15-20% water changes a week.

[petluvr]

4 months is still fairly new and diatoms are commonly seen in "newer" tanks and you are sure it's diatoms, does it wipe off easily?

[stussy28]

It doesn't really wipe off at all, I have to scratch at it to get it off.

[petluvr]

Then I would not think it was diatoms...they usually wipe off easily. Can you get a pic???

[stussy28]

I can't tonight since I don't have a digital camera, but I will borrow my friend's and put a picture or two tomorrow.

Thanks for the ridiculously quick replies.

[petluvr]

Ur welcome it def seems like some type of algae but diatoms usually wipe off fairly easy so I would say get a pic up and then let some of the smarter ones (smarter than me anyway:) Chime in.