Help! Problems w/algae and poor growth

Since problems began after decreasing C02 and light, perhaps C02 is the culprit...since I only do low-tech planted tanks, I've got no experience in this area, maybe John's on the right track here.
 
Id put the light back to 10-12hrs, cut the CO2 completely and reduce fertilizers. I would also go buy more plants java fern,Anubias,anacharis. esp anacharis, which produces an Anti-algea film on its leaves.


a longer light cycle encourages a vegetative state in plants while a reduced light cycle promotes either reproductive or dormant state.

CO2 is not absolutely essential w/ 1.4 or 2wpg.

Algea cannot compete against Higher plants for limited amounts of nutrients. starve the algea to a manageable level. Then slowly increase ferts to a dosage that works well for your plants.
 
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I agree with silverado. The simpler you keep things, the easier it will be to determine what the problem is. I believe in the simple, low-tech method for low-light tanks.

C02 and ferts really shouldn't be necessary in a low-light tank, and algae should not be an issue if lighting is appropriate (1 to 2 watts per gallon, 10-12 hours per day), and regular water changes are being made, keeping nitrates below 20 ppm.

Usually low light = low maintenance. :)
 
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