Mary Allen
If algae form in the aquarium, this is basically the first sign that the ecosystem is impaired or even out of biological balance. Fast and targeted action is required to prevent the uninvited algae from multiplying uncontrollably. Algae can usually be fought well with natural means and avoided with the right aquarium care.
This is Why Algae Develop in the Aquarium
The causes of algae can usually be found in inadequate maintenance of the mini biotope, but direct sunlight or poor plant growth can also be responsible. The excessive fish stock also leads to an increase in nitrate and phosphate levels in the water, which in turn serve as a basis for algae growth. Unsuitable or too long daily lighting of the aquarium can promote algae growth just as much as over-fertilization of the water or excessive feeding.
Algae Species at a Glance: Harmless or Dangerous?
There are numerous types of algae, many of which are harmless, but some are also dangerous. Harmless species include green algae and brown or diatoms. Not to be trifled with is a so-called algal bloom (water bloom) – a sudden increase in algae or cyanobacteria (blue-green algae). Their prevalence in the water indicates that the aquarium is not being properly cared for and that there are too many nutrients (such as nitrate and phosphate) present. Due to the algae bloom, the water surface turns green and in rare cases, the water has a cloudy appearance.
Combat Algae in the Aquarium: Do Without the Chemical Club
The best prevention against algae is optimal water care. If they occur anyway, natural remedies are best suited. The aquarium inhabitants and the water quality also suffer from chemical algaecides. Dying plants then bring pollutants into the water, which can cause it to collapse within a very short time and in turn serve as nutrients for the algae.
Better: Algae Control in a Natural Way
Algae can usually be combated with natural means. You can use various algae eaters for this – above all various snails such as steel helmets, antlers, or racing snails. This is followed by shrimp and finally, some types of fish such as dwarf loricariids, sucking loaches, or algae mullets. Healthy and lush plant growth mainly helps to limit the spread of algae. Most plants and algae require the same nutrients. Good planting ensures that there are not enough of these important substances left for the algae.
Better: Algae Control in a Natural Way
Once you have set up your aquarium, you should check it daily for algae. You should immediately remove algae coverings on the tank floor or the roots of the plants as well as algae threads. The best way to do this is to remove the algae from the water by hand. A disc magnet is a practical tool for dirty aquarium walls.