Why Your Tank Looks So Bad Many saltwater tanks go through what's called "the ugly phase." It usually starts around two to four weeks in, with a brown layer of diatoms spreading across the sand and rocks. This stage can make tanks look dirty, but it's a normal part of the cycle. While there’s no perfect fix yet, it's something most reef keepers learn to manage over time. Comment below if you'd love to learn how to eliminate the 'ugly phase' in your aquarium. #AquariumInnovation #TheUglyPhase #Dr