Dosing nitrates (KNO3) to combat cyano

[Reef Pilot]

Originally Posted by syncro

Yes. I think it is critical to remove all cyano first (possibly using ChemiClean here). Then setting up an environment for macro algae to outcompete cyano - by dosing nitrates

Actually, dosing carbon or using bio pellets will feed the cyano. You are correct, though, to first remove the cyano with ChemiClean. It works very well, if you follow directions. Then dose MB7 which provides beneficial bacteria to your tank, which out competes cyano.
http://brightwellaquatics.com/produc...robacter7t.php
It is not necessary to turn off your skimmer with MB7. Works great.

I would never intentionally add nitrates to a tank, given all my effort over the years to get rid of it.

[syncro]

Originally Posted by Reef Pilot

Then dose MB7 which provides beneficial bacteria to your tank, which out competes cyano.

Thanks Reef Pilot. I did try two weeks of full dose MB7. Cyano grew back even faster while dosing. Do you think I need to dose longer? The bottle is over a year old (though stored in the fridge and no expiry date listed) so maybe it isn't active now. The problem with MB7 is we don't know what bacteria is in it - what does the bacteria need to grow (carbon? nitrates? hamburgers?)

I would never intentionally add nitrates to a tank, given all my effort over the years to get rid of it.

I understand. My tank has had 0 nitrates since the cycle ended. I think because of the DSB.

[Reef Pilot]

Originally Posted by syncro

Thanks Reef Pilot. I did try two weeks of full dose MB7. Cyano grew back even faster while dosing. Do you think I need to dose longer? The bottle is over a year old (though stored in the fridge and no expiry date listed) so maybe it isn't active now. The problem with MB7 is we don't know what bacteria is in it - what does the bacteria need to grow (carbon? nitrates? hamburgers?)

Two weeks and stopping won't do anything for you. You have to keep dosing MB7, heavy for a couple weeks, and then tapering off, as per directions. I dose 1 cap every 3 or 4 days for a 100g tank on a permanent basis.

But to initially get rid of the cyano, you need to use ChemiClean. After that, the beneficial bacteria from your MB7 dosing should be taking hold. Of course other parameters need to be good as well, like P04 and KH (higher is better). And you need lots of flow in your tank. If there is any detritus in your tank, use a toothbrush to clean your rocks, and a turkey baster.