Aquarium Algae Control
The Quest to Vanquish the Green Aquatic Monster
What will you do if one day, you just found your fish tank being attacked by one of the most ferocious monsters that you fish tank has ever faced? This creepy (pun intended) green monster, more popularly known as algae can be a real pain to clean, and what’s worse with this monster, is that it literally comes back for more every now and then. If you wish to be able to vanquish this evil monster successfully, then you would need to do some aquarium algae control.
Well, okay, maybe my definition as a green monster was too exaggerated, because this green fellow is usually harmless when they are present in very small quantities. BUT, when they start growing in large quantities, serious problems start to rise. Fortunately, there are several preventive measures that you can do to ultimately limit the quantity of algae on you fish tank.
Set the entire underwater environment in constant motion
Well, yeah, the firs are swimming and the plants are a static as they may be, so what do I mean by setting them in motion? Prevent a condition were any kind of build up would develop, for example, do not overstock, and in this process you have to clean the excess food that your fishes did not manage to eat. Also, do regular partial water changes, to keep the otherwise stagnant water fresh and free from any kind of material build-up. Oh, and keep you fish tank away from any direct contact with sunlight please.
Enhancement items and tools for aquarium algae control
Protein skimmers are one of the best items to use to prevent these algae from building up in your aquarium, as they dissolve all sorts of organics and proteins that usually attract these little green critters to gather around in your fish tank.
Power filters can also help in preventing algae build up, but you would have to replace the filters more often. Organic build up in the wastes found on the filter can actually be a breeding ground for algae, and if you’re not careful, they might come bursting out of the filter before you even know it!
Ultraviolet sterilizers are some of the optional devices that you can use to further reduce the build up of algae in your fish tank. Although they are originally used to kill disease outbreaks in an aquarium, they can also be effectively used to halt the growth of algae for a period of time. Be wary though, don’t let the sterilizer on for a very long period of time, as it can cause harm to other aquatic life when used excessively.
At least be prepared if a battle does ensue
If they do build up, be prepared for lengthy session of aquarium scrubbing. There are available algae pads out there that you can use to scrub these green monsters off your aquarium. If you are using an acrylic tank, be sure to use the softer pads to prevent scratches to develop.
Not really a well cooked up aquarium algae control plan as it would seem, but this should help you get a head start on the green enemy that you are going to have to deal with from time to time. Remember, never give up the fight, always plan ahead, and never let this monster have an opportunity to manifest itself as much as possible.
