How to Get Brown Algae off of Aquarium Rocks

Algae is a natural part of an aquarium, and it is futile to try to eliminate it completely. However, you obviously do not want an aquarium full of brown algae. There are several steps you can take to control the growth of brown algae.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Aquarium Scrubbing brush

1. Scrub most of the existing algae off the rocks with an aquarium scrub brush.

2. Do not clean your tank of all algae. Although this seems counterintuitive, leaving a bit of algae will stop new algae from growing as quickly. The existing algae will consume the nutrients in the water, which will make it harder for new algae to grow.

3. Limit the light near your aquarium. Keep the aquarium far from any windows, or install blinds or shades over the windows and keep them closed during the day. Keep your aquarium lights on for fewer than 10 hours a day.

4. Remove all dead fish as soon as possible. A decaying body creates nutrients that promote the growth of new algae.

5. Consider installing an algae filter or another piece of equipment to remove most of the algae from the water.

6. Consider introducing an algae control product, which removes nutrients from the water, effectively starving the algae.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure that the lights in the aquarium are on when the fish are feeding. Many fish will not feed in the dark.
• Do not remove the algae more than once a week.

Resources

• What Is Brown Algae?