The previous owner did say he didn't have time to keep up maintenance so with basic care the issues you have will disappear. I have 6 tutbo snails, a gobie, and a mutant blenny and have zero visable algea.
keep em alive@home
I have lots of rock in sump with a powerhead moving water around. it definitely has a positive filtration effect. my trites and trates stay unusually low and I dont run skimmer. and yes I over feed!
keep em alive@home
is your 45lbs of rock sitting on the sand or on DT glass bottom? I had a similar issue and it was the crap trapped between the rocks and substrate. Also during next water change soak all pumps in a vinegar and water solution to clean out equipment. Please don't give up. you are not alone.
also...
the only way to effect DT water level is to raise or lower overflow. your overflow sets the water level.stop by you LFS and they will help.
good luck.
1
Forgot to add I'm running a 125 reef ready with 75 gallon sump. Live rock and mineral mud are only source of filtration. Will be adding chaeto soon. I am open to suggestions about algea types that reduce nitrates. Tanks in advance. Peace
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