Algae control in fuge/sump?

Besides a snail, what other creature could help with microalgae control in my fuge (and leave the pods alone)? I'm afraid of snails having access to the plumbing and going up the pipes and causing a blockage.

 

You will likely see different opinions here on this one . . .. but here is mine . . .

A refugiums intent is to provide refuge from the "predatory" behaviors of the DT's inhabitants. As well as refuge from other inhabitants that inherently disturb a DSB.

I would suggest that the fuge itself SHOULD be dirty and "swamp-like". This is ideal territory for macroalgea and pod production.

I would steer away from any snails or hermit crabs that will disturb the sand bed. If you have no DSB in your fuge and just have Chaeto you can probably get away with snails - but you nailed the point that you are risking that they can cause a clog. Also adding snails/hermits to the fuge section always presents the possibility for them to wander to another chamber of your sump where they can get seriously clogged in any given plumbing orifice and cause serious heartache.

 

Thanks--so the fact the fuge is covered in brown algae is actually a good thing then? I do have a DSB and chaeto (just added pods yesterday). If that's the case, I'll just leave it alone.