Algae is a common and recurring problem aquarists face while keeping aquariums at home. Most aquarists look for ways to eliminate algae from the fish tank. The best way to keep an eye on algae growth is to control the factors leading to it. Once you understand the reason for algae growth, dealing with the problem becomes easier. Regular maintenance is the key to an algae-free and clean aquarium apart from other ways.
This article focuses on the causes of algae growth inside the aquarium and strategies to control algae.
Why Does Algae Grow in an Aquarium?
Algae grow in an environment with plenty of water, nutrients, and light. In other words, the build-up of organic compounds is the main reason for algae growth. The aquarium is the place that provides them with such a flourishing environment. Identifying excess algae growth indicates an imbalance in the aquatic ecosystem. Here is the detailed list of the factors contributing to the algae growth:
Excessive Nutrients
Check out for ammonia traces in the tank because a higher content of ammonia can disrupt the ecosystem, leading to algae growth and even the death of fish. The presence of nitrate also causes algae growth. Nitrate builds up when the tank is set up for a longer period. Another reason for algae growth is the presence of phosphate in some fish food and marine salt mixes. The best method to naturally remove ammonia, nitrate, and phosphate is to change the water in the tank.
Exposure to Excessive Light
Light is vital to algae growth. Some fish species thrive in direct sunlight, so overexposure to light may result in a population explosion of algae inside the aquarium. Many aquarists leave the aquarium lights on for decorative purposes, which provides perfect conditions for algae growth.
Water Temperature
Most algae species thrive in warm temperatures, so it's advisable to maintain a low water temperature to control their growth.
Level of Carbon Dioxide in the Water
Higher amounts of carbon dioxide in the water are also one of the primary reasons for algae growth. The best way to lower the carbon dioxide level is aeration, which ensures the growth of aerobic bacteria that compete with algae for nutrients.
How to Control Algae Growth in an Aquarium?
At times, it gets difficult to remove algae completely because water and air contain germs of algae that lead to algae growth. It's a recurring problem, but working on its root cause can undoubtedly help reduce algae growth to a great extent. Here are the different methods to keep check on algae growth:
Choose the Right Fish Size
Getting the right size of fish for aquariums is vital because it decides the amount of waste produced. Large fish produce more waste, producing harmful ammonia and initiating the nitrogen cycle. Hence, small fish should be used for small aquariums and big fish for large aquariums to reduce algae growth.
Controlling the Amount of Light
Too much exposure to sunlight or artificial light encourages the growth of algae. If the aquarium has live plants, reduce the duration of exposure to light to approximately eight hours each day. If the aquarium is placed near a window, change its location or block the sunlight by covering it with sheets or bin liners.
Maintaining Adequate Nutrient Levels
Keep a check on the amount of nutrients supplied to the aquarium plants. If there are only a few plants in the aquarium, add nutrients accordingly; otherwise, algae will use excess nutrients for their growth.
Increasing Plant Density
Plants absorb excess nutrients and leave less for algae to grow on. Healthy plants compete with algae for nutrients and, in this process, keep algae's growth under check. It is also important to trim dead leaves so that algae do not thrive on them.
Add Algae Eating Fish
Adding algae-eating fish is an effective solution. It is a natural solution, and there is no need to use any artificial chemicals in the aquarium. These fish eat algae while grazing on the grass. However, make sure that algae-eating fish are compatible with the existing ecosystem of the aquarium and the other fish and plants.
Frequent Water Change
An effective and simplest way to get rid of algae is to regularly change the water in the fish tank. Over time, water develops a nutrient imbalance, disrupting the ecosystem. Hence, regular water changes balance the nutrient content, slowing down the growth of algae.
Add Live Plants
Adding live plants is also a natural solution to remove algae. It works because algae and live plants compete for nutrients, leaving less nutrients for algae to thrive.
Conclusion
Understanding the reasons for algae growth can help you fight the problem more effectively. Once you understand the factors, take steps to control algae growth, as discussed in this article. This will ensure a clean fish tank.
