Aquarium Pests

A common challenge faced by aquarium enthusiasts, with a particular focus on the problems caused by cyanobacteria and dinoflagellates. These issues often lead to frustration among both beginners and experienced aquarists, leading many to leave the hobby entirely within the first 18 months. The conversation emphasizes the inevitability of having to deal with these "ugly" phases when establishing a new aquarium system, largely due to the instability that comes with new setups lacking a mature bacterial population. Without sufficient beneficial bacteria, nutrients can accumulate, creating ideal conditions for the proliferation of these problematic algae and bacteria.