Questions about Algae Beads

My algae beads did not change color.  What should I do?

1. Did you add the diluted carbonate pH indicator? 

If they were the Ready-To-Go version, they came in the indicator and are... well ready.   You will need the indicator solution you ordered "Beads Only".  

2. Have you given them some time under a light. 

The carbonate indicator has a buffer (sodium bicarbonate).  If the beads have been in the dark for >24 hours they have respired, and it will take a bit of time in the light for photosynthesis to fix all the CO2 (aka carbonic acid) to bring them up to the pH where color change occurs.  Keep in mind that the pH scale color change is smaller than the actual pH range that can occur with the beads in the solution.  

An analogy would be a person walking across a stage.  At first they were not visible at stage left... then they were seeable by the audience.. and they exit stage right.

 A good light source is a CFL lamp about 2 inches from the bulb.

3. Are they dead?  

If they are still a pretty green, they are not likely dead.  If the beads turn pale yellow green they may on their way to the next world.  

If you believe you have committed algae murder, these are the most likely weapons that will be discussed at your trial.