Bacteria bloom in established tank

[Jeffd1979]

I have had my tank going for about 2 1/2 months now.. Had one of these the first week and it went away... I came home from work today and my water is cloudy again.. the water tests fine.. no ammonia, nitrates or nitrites... I did a 30% water change 2 days ago... Does this happen in established tanks alot.. I thought it only happened in new tanks..

[JSchmidt]

Yes it can happen in established tanks. (At 2 1/2 months, though, you're tank is probably still finding equilibrium among the various inhabitants, microscopic and otherwise!)

If the cloudiness is white (not green) don't worry about it. It is caused by a bloom in the number of one or more normal flora organisms and will soon correct itself. Sometimes a change in feeding regimen or water supply (or water conditioner) will bring on such a bloom.

If the cloudiness is green, it's unicellular algae and a different course of action is needed.

If you're not sure which it is, draw a cup of tank water in a clear glass and hold it in front of white paper. Post back here if its green and we'll generate some things for you to try.

HTH,
Jim

[Anthony8858]

Here's my thread for the same problem:

Does your water look like mine?

You might find some answers.

http://www.aquariacentral.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=21072

[Jeffd1979]

It is white and looks just like Anthony8858's tank... It is gotten worse today but still not as bad as the first time it happened.. fish seem fine so i will just let it run its course...