Controlling
"Causes & rectification"
Algae – the fear of every aquarist. In this regard, in most cases algae are not harmful but rather are "only" disturbing for the eye. We have listed the types of algae that occur and what you can do against the "green pest".
Types of algae and algae growth
Types of algae
There are different types of algae, however only a few are relevant for an aquarium. The most frequent algae types in our application are presented. Blue algae, red algae, green algae and brown algae.
Causes
There are many reasons for increased algae growth, however the most frequent cause is an over-abundance of nutrients.
Elimination of algae
To avoid increased algae growth, the nutrient cycle in an aquarium must function. If nutrients are added, e.g. through fish food, then nutrients must also be removed, e.g. through trimming of plants and/or a water change. In particular, frequent water changes withdraw the excess nutrients and thus help eliminate algae. There are other possibilities for solving algae problems.
- Use of plants
The use of plants is helpful, since the plants compete with the algae. They also consume nutrients and thus prohibit the algae growth. If you can increase plant growth then at same time you are fighting algae growth. - Fish and invertebrates that eat algae
Use of fish and invertebrates that eat algae is likewise helpful. These animals use algae as a nutrient and consume it. - Frequent water change
Probably the most important and most effective measure against algae is a frequent water change. {Link water change} Nutrients are withdrawn through the replacing of burdened water with unburdened water. - Use of UVC devices
UVC devices are used with the goal of reducing the bacterial count and continuously preventing water turbidity. Turbidity is caused by suspended algae or bacterial proliferation (whitish turbidity). The solution: UVC light kills suspended algae and decimates harmful bacteria and germs that live free in the water without the use of chemicals. Nice side effect: Fish diseases are likewise reduced. Important: The "useful" bacteria necessary for the nutrient cycle in the filter media and in the substrate, as well as on rocks, etc.) are not impaired through use of a UVC device.