8 Effective Steps in Dealing with Algae

The presence of algae in an aquarium is generally a good sign as it means that the aquarium is capable of supporting life on its own.

However, if allowed to grow spontaneously, the algae may eventually cost every surface in the aquarium. This mars the appearance of the aquarium, and makes it difficult to see the fish.

The use of algaecides is one way to control algae growth. These products, however, may kill live plants, work the biological filter harder and pose a danger to your fish health.

8 steps you can take to control algae growth:

1. Place the tank where it does not receive exposure to direct sunlight. Any exposure, even for a short duration or on any part of the tank, will lead to algae growth.
2. Change approximately 10 to 15 per cent of the water weekly. This helps remove free-floating algae, as well as phosphates and nitrates that contribute to algae growth.
3. Scrub the sides of the tank before making water changes so that the loosened algae can be remover together with the dirty water.
4. Carry out filter maintenance whenever necessary – change filter media, clean gravel and so on.
5. Don’t overfeed the fish. They should be fed only when necessary, and should completely consume all the food given in less than two minutes. Excess food provides nutrients for algae growth, and contributes to poor water quality and fish health.
6. Keep the tank population under control. Overpopulation contributes to increased waste levels in the tank. Waste by-products like nitrates also provide nutrients for algae and encourage their growth.
7. Ensure that any additive you are using in the tank does not contain phosphates or nitrates.
8. A healthy community of aquatic plants in your aquarium will also help control algae growth. As plants are more efficient at extracting and using nutrients than the algae, they will deprive the algae of their share of nutrients and stem their growth.

However, even if you have live plants in your aquarium, you must still carry out regular tank and filter maintenance to keep algae growth under control. Maintaining the water quality will help the plants to survive.

As aquariums should not be placed in areas with direct sunlight, keep aquatic plants healthy by providing them with 12 to 14 hours of artificial lighting daily. Use full-spectrum aquarium lights or high-quality lights designed for use in aquariums.

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