Target Dinoflagellates Where They Grow

Sand-dwelling dinoflagellates can be difficult to reach with a conventional in-line UV sterilizer. The ReefSweep Mini is designed to bring UV-C treatment directly to affected areas of the sand bed in a marine aquarium.

Place the treatment head directly on or just above a visibly affected area, with the opening facing the sand. The enclosed design concentrates the UV-C light on a small area while helping shield the rest of the aquarium from direct exposure.

The ReefSweep Mini is intended for the targeted treatment of sand-dwelling dinoflagellates, including types such as Large Cell Amphidinium and Small Cell Amphidinium. It can be used as part of a broader approach to identifying and managing dinoflagellates in your reef aquarium.

Why Choose the ReefSweep Mini?

• Targeted sand-bed treatment: applies UV-C directly to visibly affected areas.
• Designed for sand-dwelling dinoflagellates: including Amphidinium types that often remain on or in the substrate.
• Modular handle: supplied with two extension tubes and one connector.
• Controlled treatment area: the treatment head keeps the opening directed towards the sand.
• Simple spot-treatment method: treat individual affected zones for approximately 30 seconds at a time.

How to Use

1. Assemble the ReefSweep Mini using the required number of extension tubes.
2. Place the treatment head directly on or just above the affected area, with the opening facing the sand.
3. Make sure the complete treatment head is submerged before switching on the UV-C module.
4. Hold the ReefSweep Mini in place for approximately 30 seconds per zone.
5. Treat only visibly affected areas and limit each treatment session to a maximum of 60 minutes.
6. Switch off and unplug the UV-C module before removing the ReefSweep Mini from the aquarium.

Temporarily lowering or switching off your circulation pumps can make it easier to keep the tool positioned over the selected area.

Why can dinoflagellates take over?

Dinoflagellates can gain ground when aquarium conditions favour them and other micro-organisms lose their foothold. Prolonged very low or undetectable nitrate and phosphate, a loss of biodiversity or sudden changes in maintenance may play a part. An outbreak is also possible when nitrate and phosphate are measurable; test values alone do not reveal the cause.

Supporting the aquarium after treatment

UV-C treats a selected area, but long-term management also means looking after the rest of the aquarium. Some reef keepers add a suitable bacterial culture after treatment and introduce copepods to support microfauna. Both are optional additions, not a guaranteed cure or a required dose after every session. Follow the bacterial product's directions, including any instructions about switching off UV equipment, and monitor nitrate and phosphate. Copepods need suitable habitat and food to establish.

What’s Included?

• 1 × ReefSweep Mini treatment head
• 2 × Extension tubes
• 1 × Connector
• 1 × 3W UV-C module

Important Safety Information

Do not use in acrylic aquariums (Plexiglas).

UV-C light can damage eyes and skin. Only switch on the UV-C module when it is correctly installed, fully submerged and directed towards the sand. Never look directly at the UV-C light or at its reflection.

Do not expose fish, corals, invertebrates, live rock or other aquarium surfaces directly to the UV-C light. Keep the plug and electrical connections dry, use a drip loop and discontinue use if the module or cable is damaged.

The ReefSweep Mini is a targeted treatment tool, not a guaranteed standalone cure for every dinoflagellate outbreak. Results can vary depending on the dinoflagellate species and aquarium conditions. Correct identification and addressing the underlying cause remain important.