dry rock

Those are diatoms. They will go away, just give it time!

 

Many people don't run their lights during a cycle. I like to so beneficial stuff can start growing. Then algae eating critters have a field day when introduced

 

I ran my lights during my cycle for this reason. Am I smart/experienced enough to say it made any sense? Nope...but it made sense in my noggin' 8)

 

I also think that this is a good idea.

 

Looks like diatoms to me too. Im going to not run the lights for so long. Was going to grab a phosphate tester, but not sure if it's needed?

 

x2. i run the lights 8hrs a day during a cycle. you could at least run them 4hrs if you wanted. if they are left off, i would assume that would just make the cycle last longer..

 

I run my lights 12 hours per day during the cycle to help fuel algae growth to remove the nitrates. Once nitrates are depleted, the algae dies off, keeping the beneficial bacteria fed. When all the algae is gone, I start adding livestock.

I don't think leaving lights off will prolong the cycle, but without good algae growth, you will have nitrates to deal with before you even start stocking.