Sand turning green

[flaggy]

Hi there, my sand substrate (pool filter sand) is turning green. The tank is in the living room, which unfortunately has too much light from the outside (but the light is diffused through screens).

I suspect it is algae, but what type? Short of relocating the tank, how can I reduce or prevent this from occuring again (after I change some of the sand)? Increase circulation? Will a UV steriliser help?

Please see picture below:

http://flaggy.wemmit.net/greensand.jpg

Thanks!

[DiscusDave]

Green Spot or Green Dust (GSA / GDA) I would say. A UV may help stop it spreading but wont get rid of it. You could try no light for 2-3 days (if there's lots of natural light you'll have to screen the tank).

[costatoolio]

id suggest purshasing a couple of bristnose catfish. they are powerhouse algae cleaners. did wonders with my tank!

[ILLUSN]

thats green spot algae, bristlenoses wont eat it, its one of those algae thats a real pain to get rid of, still if thats the only algae in the tank your doing well.