How to Manage Algae Growth in Your Freshwater Aquarium

Controlling algae in an aquarium may seem difficult, but it’s quite manageable. A little algae isn’t a big problem as long as it isn’t taking over your freshwater aquarium. It takes a little more fine-tuning in a saltwater aquarium. A little algae on the glass is completely normal. However, if it’s all over your decorations, plants, or corals (in saltwater tanks), you’ll need to take action. If you follow a few simple steps, you can keep that pesky algae from getting out of control without having to bust your budget on expensive fish tank supplies. Here are a few basic things you can do to keep your aquarium functioning at its best and nearly algae free.

Limit the Light

On average, six to eight hours of light a day will be plenty, even if you have plants in your aquarium, but you can use less if you’re not growing plants. An overextended photoperiod can cause algae to grow. A timer is a great tool for keeping track of the photoperiod and managing it properly. If you’re using fluorescent lights, make sure to change them after about a year and a half because the spectrum will start to change. Also consider where your tank is located. If it’s next to a window where incoming light is shining on it, this can also cause algae overgrowth.

Change the Water

Changing 20 to 30 percent of your aquarium’s water every one to two weeks is good, but changing it weekly is best. Make sure to use a nitrate and phosphate test kit to test your water when you change it. If your tap water tests positive for either of these materials, you’ll have to precondition your water or use “RO” or “DI” water (the best success is with this type of super clean water) before you use it in the tank. When you change the water, make sure to clean the tank’s glass sides as well. Glass is one of the first places algae first starts to grow. Check and clean your filter weekly to ensure it’s functioning correctly and filtering properly.

Don’t Overfeed Your Fish

Feeding your fish too much could cause uneaten food to get stuck in the filter, which could  cause algae growth. Feed smaller amounts several times throughout the day instead of larger portions a couple of times a day. Remember the two-minute rule: no food should be left anywhere in the tank after two minutes.

Add Abundant Amounts of Live Plants

The more plants in a planted freshwater aquarium, the better. More plants = less algae. The CO2 plants produce reduces the chances of algae growth when the aquarium is fully stocked with plants and fertilizer is used. The importance of using fertilizer is paramount. When using supplements for the plants for their growth, don’t use too much. Start with a small amount and get on a 2-3 times per week regimen.

Purchase Fish That Feed on Algae, But Not Plant Eaters

The Bristlenose Pleco, Siamese Algae Eater, Chinese Algae Eater, and Ottocinclus Catfish are a few freshwater fish known for eating algae. For a saltwater tank, the Nassarius Snail, Tailspot Blenny, and Trochus Snail are great at keeping algae growth to a minimum.

For an in-depth discussion about the many aspects of algae in a reef tank, please watch this high-production video on Aquatic Warehouse’s YouTube Channel:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M8iuXxFGLvo

Whether you have a freshwater aquarium or a saltwater tank, algae growth is an issue you’ll have to address. You’ll find all the supplies and advice you need at Aquatic Warehouse, so drop by or call us today at 858-467-9297.