The presence of some traces of algae may be unavoidable in the aquarium and may not necessarily be harmful to the aquatic ecosystem. However, depending on the type and how long they have developed, they can quickly become a problem. Extensive flowering can reduce oxygen levels, and some types of aquatic vegetation release chemicals that can be lethal to plants and animals. If you are faced with an algae bloom, learning how to eliminate existing ones and prevent future growth can save the aquarium and keep fish strong and healthy.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Remove the Algae from the Aquarium
Step 1. Perform a partial water change
This solution is one of the most effective ways to combat algae growth; by eliminating a part of water and replacing it with another clean one, you practically dilute the concentration. It should be done every two weeks to ensure a good quality of the aquarium environment.
- Drain or transfer about 25% of the water in the tank, but if the algae is massive, you should replace even more.
- In any case, do not change more than 50% at one time, otherwise you could alter the pH, resulting in stress for the fish that could even die.
- Check the pH level before and after performing the partial water change; it should not vary by more than 0.2 units to avoid stressing the fish.
Step 2. Scrape the algae off the glass walls of the tank
One way to keep their constant growth in check is to physically remove them. You can proceed with this cleaning when you change the water, since its level is lower and it is easier to access the walls.
- Scratch or scrub the tub at least once a week.
- If you use a sponge, proceed with caution; in addition to hidden microorganisms, a sponge used several times can trap grains of sand that can scratch the glass.
Step 3. Consider using an algaecide
There are chemicals on the market that help kill algae quickly and effectively; however, you must be cautious when using substances of this type, as they can upset the balance of the aquarium when they are applied improperly. Do not use algaecides if live plants are present, as they could kill them.
Step 4. Introduce algae-eating fish and invertebrates
This is another way to eliminate weed plant material. These "scavengers" eat those that have taken root on plants, substrate and even on the glass walls of the aquarium. Seek advice from experienced pet shop clerks to find aquatic organisms that can do this.
- Most water snails eat them, whether in a freshwater or saltwater aquarium; However, check that the ones you decide to buy are suitable for the aquarium in your possession.
- Ophiuroidea (known as serpentine stars), polychaetes, hermit crabs, Nassarius snails and sea cucumbers help keep algae at bay in saltwater aquariums by clearing organic debris from the substrate.
Step 5. Try to insert allelopathic plants
Some varieties produce and release chemicals that inhibit algae growth in home aquariums. Those that grow more rapidly are generally those that exhibit this characteristic more easily; among the best known consider: Cabomba, Egeria densa, water fern, Hygrophila and Vallisneria.
Part 2 of 3: Reducing the Chances of Future Algae Growth
Step 1. Reduce feed doses and how often you feed fish
Overeating is one of the major causes of the development of these plant weeds in home aquariums. You may be tempted to feed the fish several times a day or to pour in more food than is necessary for fear that they do not eat enough, but keep in mind that any leftover settles in the substrate and decomposes in the water; these organic substances are the "fuel" for algae bloom and can quickly transform a clean aquarium into a dirty environment.
- Try feeding the fish low-phosphate food; check the label which should indicate the quantities of each ingredient.
- Feed the fish only once a day; some industry experts recommend giving them food every other day rather than daily, as long as the animals can handle that feeding schedule (ask an expert at the specialty store).
- Do several tests to find out how much food is sufficient for the fish. Usually, a few specific pellets or flakes are all they can eat before the leftovers fall to the bottom of the tank.
- If you are concerned that this is not an adequate amount for all the fish present, try adding more food later; however, only pour small portions at both meals.
Step 2. Reduce the lighting in the aquarium
Food and light are the two most responsible for algae formation; if you have a lighting system installed above the tub, you should turn it on less frequently. In addition to reducing the duration of use, you should also replace the bulbs; some types of plant weeds thrive at different light wavelengths and as the bulbs age this factor alters.
- Try turning off the aquarium lights completely while you are experiencing active algae bloom.
- Once the problem is under control, reduce the time the lighting system is active; try to limit it to a few hours a day.
- Change the fluorescent bulbs once a year and replace the VHO ones at least every six months.
Step 3. Adjust the water temperature
Algae can grow in any temperature or condition, but some studies have found that they grow more easily when the temperature is higher. If you typically use a heater, lower the temperature a few degrees; however, before making any changes, check that the fish can survive even in slightly colder water.
Ask a fish expert at the pet store for more details to find out what temperature range they can survive
Part 3 of 3: Ensuring Water Quality
Step 1. Run a tap water test
Algae thrive when water contains high levels of phosphates and nitrates. Although that of the aqueduct is safe for human consumption and generally contains low levels of these substances, there is always the risk that they will be added and which in turn favor the proliferation of plant material every time the water changes. the aquarium; the best way to make sure it's quality is to test the faucet one with a home kit.
- Ideally, the concentration of nitrates and phosphates should be 0 parts per million (ppm).
- If it exceeds this level - corresponding to 0 - you must filter it before pouring it into the tank.
- You can purchase a test kit and filter from major pet stores or online retailers.
Step 2. Install a skimmer
This device is able to remove the organic material present in the aquarium, such as faeces and food residues. This way, if you have mistakenly overfed the fish or a lot of feces have accumulated on the bottom, it is possible to return the water to relatively healthy conditions.
- An appropriate skimmer should work consistently every day.
- Once you have cleared the aquarium of algae, you can discontinue or reduce its use.
Step 3. Change the filter material once a month
The aquarium filter can accumulate residues of dirt and nutrients; even if you remove them from the water, when it's dirty it can begin to disperse the additives that promote algae growth. To prevent this from happening, you should change the filter material every month; you should also rinse it every time you do a partial water change, to make sure food residues and debris don't accumulate inside.
