New to saltwater...think I have a problem already...

MindgamE--

The coral that you say is closed up in the middle of the photo looks like a leather to me, but I suppose it might be something else. As Dr. Bergeron said of the one on the right--it looks like GSP. Remember that even more than light, algae feed on nutrients. If they're growing, your water has nutrients in sufficient amounts to foster their growth.

When the original owner said the lights were "on all day," that might have meant 12 hours unless you know otherwise. If they're not metal halides, 12 hours of light from tubes is probably not enough alone to cause rampant algae growth. I've said before and I'll say again--if your water is in good shape, you could leave your tank in direct sunlight for a few hours a day and still not have algae issues to the extent that you do.

DBOSHIBBY called it right on the ID of hair algae and bubble algae. What's worked for me with bubble algae is physical removal with a siphon. You'll read that it's not good to pop bubble algae lest it spread around the tank. If that's true, then next time you do a water change, using the tube to siphon the water out, try to knock the algae off its base, removing both the bubble and the spores with the water entering the siphon. Honestly I'm not sure about the popping thing, but I've read it hundreds of times. In my mind, if popping it causes it to spread--then an emerald crab eating it should create at least 2 more for every one he consumes. Be wary of using animals to rid your tank of algae or other pests. You'll read that sixline wrasses get rid of flatworms and emerald crabs get rid of bubble algae--but in my mind it's like treating lung cancer by stopping smoking. You have to treat the cause, not the symptom.

Look into the many algae threads here on 3reef, you'll find plenty of info. Welcome to 3reef. Welcome to the hobby! Bring your wallet. You're gonna need it!

 

For those of you joining us that are new to the hobby - the best piece of advice you'll get around here as a saltwater newbie is 3Reef's slogan
"Go slow, let it grow."
And for those experianced hobbyists joining us - it's still good advice
good luck and post pics soon



Here are a few threads for you to read, then come back and ask about anything you still don't understand. we'll get you squared away and on the right path

http://www.3reef.com/forums/new-hobby/how-setup-saltwater-aquarium-89044.html

http://www.3reef.com/forums/new-hobby/ultimate-newbie-guide-86462.html

http://www.3reef.com/forums/reef-aquarium-articles-how-tos/all-about-sumps-filters-fuges-79852.html

http://www.3reef.com/forums/protein-skimmers/all-about-skimmers-skimmers-skimmer-85389.html

http://www.3reef.com/forums/general-reef-topics/handy-research-links-89299.html