Algae on Glass

Algae overgrowth is a common tank problem.

Algae are a group of photosynthetic organisms normally found in oceans, ponds and aquariums.Three groups of algae are recognized worldwide, which consist of red algae (4,000 marine species known), brown algae (1,500 species known) and green algae (9,000 to 12,000 known species). Some algae is beneficial in aquariums for providing food for micro-organisms, protection from sunlight for water animals and nutrient absorption. However, too much algae can be a nuisance. Limiting growth is necessary.

Fish to Control Growth

Purchase fish for your tank that eat algae. Fish such as Black Mollies, Otocinclus Cats, Siamese Algae Eaters, Plecos and Rosie Barbs are ideal candidates for an aquatic community. Each fish is considered peaceful, gets along with most fish and will provide a nice balance within the tank.

Aquarium Sponge Cleaning

Use an aquarium sponge to clean glass. Wipe gently in a circular motion until algae disappears. If the tank is acrylic, use only sponges that are safe for acrylic tanks. Place the sponge in water, rinse and re-wipe if additional removal is necessary.

Water Changing Frequency

Change aquarium water weekly. Add new water each time. Remember it is not necessary to remove all water when cleaning. Some remaining algae is good. Cleansing tank water eliminates waste products and will prevent excessive new algae growth.

Control Sunlight Exposure

Limit tank sun exposure to 10 to 12 hours daily. This will limit nutrient sources and decrease algae growth. Purchase a gentle algae scraper (long-handled or acrylic) to remove visible algae.

Loosen Algae

Fill a spray bottle half full with water. Add several drops of vinegar. Shake and mist tank glass until covered. Use paper towels or a cloth to wipe glass in a circular motion until algae loosens. Remove algae and repeat as necessary. Rinse tank thoroughly once complete. Allow to air dry.

Blade or Credit Card Removal

Take a razor blade or old credit card, scrape up and down on the glass, and remove algae as it loosens. Use a plastic blade for acrylic tanks to avoid damaging the glass.

References

• Aquatic Community: Algae Eating Fish
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Algae
• Aquarium Pros: Nuisance Algae
• Whiskers, Wings & Wiggly Things: Goldfish Caresheet
• Yamato Gree: Cleaning Aquarium Glass Safely

Resources

• Center for Earth and Environmental Science: Algae Information Resources