Algae will naturally grow in your aquarium and a small amount is not a problem and can provide food for your fish. When it grows excessively however it will spoil the look of your aquarium and needs to be dealt with to reduce the growth.
Some ways to manage the excessive growth are:
Of these the preferred method is to prevent the excessive growth in the first place. Reducing the length of time the lights are on will have a significant affect on the algae growth. Lights should not be on more than 12-14 hours daily. You could fit an inexpensive timer to control the lighting.
When removing algae make sure you remove it from the tank not just dislodge it. Rinse the magnet or scrubber you are using frequently at the tap. Remove as much of it as possible as dislodged algae will settle again or decompose.
Partially change the water every 2 weeks and change the prefilter pad weekly. Purifying tap water by reverse osmosis or carbon prefilters are also recommended. Siphon off any debris in the tank before doing a water change. Do not use any additives that are not strictly necessary.
Snails, small hermit crabs and fish such as angels, yellow tangs and blennies will feed on the algae and help to keep it under control.
Algae grow when there is an abundance of phosphorus and nitrogen in the water so making sure your tank is cycled correctly and that you do not overfeed will help to control the algae growth.
Tags: Aquariums, cheap aquariums, removing algae
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