No one likes nuisance algae growth in their aquarium, so here are 5 tips for keeping it out!
1. Perform weekly water changes of at least 25%
2. Use a Reverse Osmosis (RO) or Dionized (DI) water to remove nitrates and phosphates from tapwater
3. Use a quality chemical filter media to absorb organics and phosphates from your aquarium's water column (Seachem's Purigen, Two Little Fishies' PhosBan, activated carbon)
4. Clean your aquarium's mechanical filters at least three times a week
5. Don't overstock
6. (Bonus tip!) Use a UV sterilizer to kill free-floating algae and keep your aquarium crystal clear (especially useful for ponds).
1. Perform weekly water changes of at least 25%
2. Use a Reverse Osmosis (RO) or Dionized (DI) water to remove nitrates and phosphates from tapwater
3. Use a quality chemical filter media to absorb organics and phosphates from your aquarium's water column (Seachem's Purigen, Two Little Fishies' PhosBan, activated carbon)
4. Clean your aquarium's mechanical filters at least three times a week
5. Don't overstock
6. (Bonus tip!) Use a UV sterilizer to kill free-floating algae and keep your aquarium crystal clear (especially useful for ponds).
Controlling nuisance algae growth is all about controlling and/or removing the dissolved nutrients from the aquarium's water column (nitrates and phosphates for the most part). Nuisance algae requires these nutrients to grow, and without them, your algae will disappear! Chemical additives to kill the algae are never recommended, as these are harmful to the aquarium inhabitants as well as algae!
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I once inherited a 55 gallon tank that was in horrid condition and carpeted in brown algae from a person who had grown tired of the aquarium. Although frequent water changes were certainly the most effective and cost efficient solution. I also found that employing a quality protein skimmer drastically reduced the algae's ability to reproduce. For the first month of the tank's rehabilitation I removed at least two gallons detritus and other rotting material. I would highly recommend a protein skimmer for any tank as they are a one shot purchase with no chemical component and will often never need to be replaced.
Posted by: Adam Smith | 04/11/2009 at 10:42 PM
Truth - for a saltwater aquarium, a protein skimmer is highly recommended for removing dissolved organics that algae feed upon. Thanks for your comment!
Posted by: Captive Aquatics | 04/12/2009 at 10:46 PM