[WannaBeAReefer]

I have a feeling this is a very naive question... but I have to ask it anyway

If you don't have hair algae and you suddenly get it... did spores take a ride on something you introduced into your tank? Water/corals/fish?
I assume it has to come from somewhere...

Is there a reasonable procedure to go through to protect against the introduction of unwanted flora?

[Rin]

It only takes one little algae cell to create a whole tankful of algae. Entropy alone dictates that it's impossible to prevent introduction. Algae is simply a part of the ecosystem.

However, if you find a way to keep it out in the first place, I'll buy in.

[scubadude]

Originally posted by WannaBeAReefer

Is there a reasonable procedure to go through to protect against the introduction of unwanted flora?

Yes, a balance of predator and prey, and a good filtration process, and good water on your w/c's, and feeding appropriately. This is all reasonable but can be tricky to ascertain especially when your tank is still maturing.