Some algae levels are unavoidable especially in aquatic environments. The organisms become a threat depending on their extent of growth and algae type. Large blooms minimize oxygen levels in the water and release harmful chemicals that are lethal to both animals and plant life. You can get rid of existing organisms from your tank or aquarium to keep the fish healthy and active.
- Removing algae blooms from the tank
- Change the water in your tank partially. This is one of the most effective ways of eliminating algae blooms in the tank. Water replacement dilutes the seaweed content and mostly leaves the water clean.
- Scrape the algae bloom from the glass walls. You can do this while carrying out the partial water change since you will have better access to the tank walls when the water level is relatively lower. Do the cleaning once every week by using a sponge.
- Use algaecide in the tank. This chemical helps in killing the organisms quickly and efficiently. However, you should be careful since the chemical agent can upset your tank’s balance if not used well.
- Introduce invertebrates and algae eating fish. Seaweed can easily be removed by introducing living additions that consume the organisms from the tank.
- Minimizing the chances of future algae blooms
- Reduce the amount of lighting in the tank. Light facilitates the growth of algae blooms hence necessitating its reduction. Consider replacing the fluorescent bulbs at least once per year.
- Feed the fish less frequently. Overfeeding the animals is a primary cause of scum in the aquarium. It’s essential to ensure that the fish is well fed because the excess food that remains settles down in the tank and decomposes, fueling the growth of seaweeds.
- Increase the level of aeration. Proper aeration helps in keeping the fish waste, debris, and the extra food floating around for easy cleaning and filtering. Upgrade the aerator or add several air stones to the aquarium to improve ventilation. The top of the tank or aquarium should always remain open most of the time to maximize the flow of oxygen.
- Ensuring that your tank has quality water
- Test the tap water you are using. Algae thrive well in water that has high nitrate and phosphate levels. Regular testing is required to ensure that it does not have these seaweed friendly compounds.
- Put up a protein skimmer in the tank. Protein skimmers remove the excess nutrients and other organic materials from the water.
- Change the filters every month. Your aquarium filters can facilitate the buildup of nutrients and organic waste. Although the screens efficiently remove the components, they will start licking the additives back to the tank once they are filled.
In summary, keep algae bloom away by removing the seaweeds, preventing future algae accumulation, and by protecting the quality of your water.