ALGAE-BUSTING TIPS

One of  the most dreaded chores for a fish hobbyist is scrubbing icky, slimy algae off the tank walls and the aquarium contents. Algae isn't only unsightly, but consumes nutrients that maybe essential to the plants in the aquarium.

If you see a hint of green carpeting  driftwood or rocks , you need not to panic. But never algae to grow to the extent that it starts covering the tank walls or choking the life out of your plants.

Perhaps the best way to prevent algae bloom is to understand the conditions that incourage its growth, and do what ever is necessary to control it.

DON'T OVERFEED YOUR FISH

Overfeeding is the most common cause of algae growth. Uneaten food and fish waste are sources of nutrients like ammonia and phosphate which algae thrives on.

New hobbyist often derive great pleasure from watching the flurry of activity in the aquarium when fish rush for food as soon as it hits the water, so they feed the fish more often than necessary. More experienced hobbyist have learn that it's enough to feed once daily , or to dispense smaller portion of food, which the fish are able to completely consume within a couple minutes, two to three times day.

CONTROL THE LIGHTING

An extended light cycle is another major factor encouraging algae growth. It's a good idea to use a timer to replicate a regular day/night time schedule. Do not  keep the lights on for more than 14 hours  per day for planted aquarium (the optimum range is eight to nine hours a days).

Incorrect lighting also contributes to algae growth. Do not cut corners  when purchasing aquarium bulbs. Those sold for use in homes generally enhance algae growth. It's best to puchase bulbs specifically made for aquarium. This is because such bulbs are not "fully spectrum" - they do not include the red component , which has been found to accelerate algae growth.

MAKE FREQUENT PARTIAL WATER CHANGES

In a natural environment, rain  and flowing currents refresh water conditions by diluting  and carrying away nitrate ( an essential ingredient in plant fertilizer )  before it can build  up to excessive levels. Since  your aquarium is an inclosed system, regular water changes are necessary to remove excess nutrients.

Poor water quality and inappropriate pH levels are often cause by lack of water changes, or overstocking of  fish and plants. Ideally, change 10% of the water weekly; or 30% monthly for aquariums with fewer inhabitants. At the same time, sipon up any sludge and dead plants matterfrom the gravel bed. Periodically scrub the tank walls with appropriate tools, and remove algae-covered items to be cleaned.

MAINTAIN THE FILTER MEDIA

The right filter media can  help maintain an optimum level of phosphate in the aquarium. Water treatement product can help remove dissolve organic compound like phosphates and keep the water crystal-clear. Change your mechanical/chemical media when required, because if  they become  saturated, toxic substances could leach into the aquarium.

PLANT COMPETITORS AND ELIMINATORS

Plants are another form of vegetation, so they compete directly with algae for light and nutrients. However it is just important to check  the growth of the plants, so as they strike a healthy balance in the aquarium's ecological system.

Fish hobbyist ussually keep a couple of algae-eating species like dwarf plecos and catchfish to vacuum up food debris and clean the aquarium.