Will excess trace elements cause algae?

[Tom]

Just something I've been wondering about really. Will an excess of trace elements cause algae? People only ever seem to mention the Macro nutrients vs. CO2 with regards to algae, so does that mean the dosing rates of Micros is less critical? Would you see deficiencies of NPK/CO2 related algae, or does it make little difference?

(I know I'm at risk of another "you idiot" reply!!)

Tom

 

[ceg4048]

Ummm....no mate, neither NPK nor micronutrients cause algae. In our tanks algae is linked to poor plant health. Check the sticky thread in this section.

People want to believe that nutrients cause algae because it seems an easy and rational scapegoat. If the answer is "No" then it makes troubleshooting so much more difficult and murky.

Cheers,