2 questions regarding the refugium

[pro2k]

1) The DSB is starting to get a layer of brown algae all across it and on the few little pieces of LR. I think it's that diatom algae...... but anyway, can I throw a few snails and crabs in there to help clean it up? (I have no macro algae in there yet but should be getting some later this week)

2) Last night after the lights came on over the fuge, I notice bubbles forming all over the DSB and once in awhile some would break free and float to the surface. Almost like the beginning stage of boiling water. Is this normal?

[bjpembo]

both are normal and yes you can toss some snails in there to clean up. i prefer to stay away from crabs these days, seems all they want to do is hijack my snails and take their shell, after eating them of course.

[dakar]

What BJ said The bubles are likely nitrogen (or some similar compound), meaning your sandbed is doing what it's sposed to and the nitrifying bacteria are being established and gainfully employed. It'll likely last a week or two.

The only time to be concerned is if you see bubbles like that but they have a VERY strong sulfur smell to them when they break the surface.