growing algae: a beginner's guide

[medix4u]

I've been thinking, how do you get that nice algae growth for mbunas to munch on? I recall this really cool display tank at a local fish store, the mbunas were grazing on all this mossy algae on the rocks - it was quite a sight.

What's the secret to growing the right type of algae for them?

[Seabuddy]

I'm pretty sure I read somewhere that you can leave a cup of water with a rock in it out in the sun for a bit, and it's supposed to grow algae.

[steelcity]

There was a great journal on this, think a forum search would turn it up. Would link it for you but posting from phone, can't find it easily.

[medix4u]

Thanks for the suggestions. I did read about using aquarium fertiliser and extending the lighting period to promote algae growth. The thing is, I'm still unsure how to cultivate the specific type of algae that mbunas prefer.

[nightowl7]

I've been thinking, how do you get that nice algae growth for mbunas to munch on? I recall this really cool display tank at a local fish store, the mbunas were grazing on all this mossy algae on the rocks - it was quite a sight.

What's the secret to growing the right type of algae for them?

I've found that in most cases, all it takes is a bit more light to get the algae growing. The tricky part is figuring out how to grow the right type for your mbunas.

Do you know anyone who has this type of algae in their tank? If so, you could try scavenging some and using the bucket and light method to let it grow. Then, it's just a matter of introducing the scavenged algae and the water it's grown in into your tank. Just be sure to increase the lighting times in your tank as well.

[medix4u]

I'm still trying to figure out the right type of algae for my mbunas. Anyone know what type they prefer? Does anyone here have that type of algae in their tank that I could scavenge from?

[kalevi]

Water parameters are key in this case. As long as your readings match those of the lake, the algae in your tank should be similar to what grows in the wild. I've found that adding lake salts to my water really helps, it adds the right supplements for the fish, and in turn, the algae grows in ideal conditions. For our mbunas, algae isn't their main food source since we're providing them with the right nutrients, they just graze on it to pass the time, it's in their nature. In the wild, this is how they'd get their food supply, so it's just a natural behavior for them. I've recently set up a new tank, all I've added is lake salts and kept the lights on for longer, and now I've got a nice amount of natural-looking algae growing.

[medix4u]

Your water parameters play a huge role in the type of algae that grows in your tank. If your water readings match those of the lake, the algae will likely be similar to what's found in the lake. I use lake salts in my water, which provides the right supplements for the fish, allowing the algae to grow in ideal conditions. The mbunas in our tanks don't rely on algae as their main food source, since we're providing the necessary nutrients through their regular diet. They just graze on the algae to mimic their natural behavior.

I've got a pic of my recently set-up tank, and as you can see, I've got a great amount of natural-looking algae growing. I've only added lake salts and left the lighting on for a longer period, and it's worked wonders. The mbunas will love it.

[kalevi]

Thanks. Ocean rock should be fine for algae growth. The male might be guarding his territory or preparing a breeding nest. Does he look healthy and display good colour? Spirulina flake is a good choice, but I'd limit algae wafers to occasional treats. NLS is a great all-round food that enhances fish colours. I get my flakes from ta-aquaculture, they're a great place for food.

[medix4u]

I think that's the case with the male, going through a colour change and the others, 7 females, are of various sizes but I think they're all juvenile. One might be a subdominant male, we'll see.

Been reading up on the salt, do you add it to tap water or use RO with a buffer? I won't be using RO, so I guess I'll need less salt if any. My GH is around 8, pH 7.8 from last year's check.

Can't find NLS food in my LFS, not even the further ones. Which flake do you feed your cichlids? I've got the JBL Rift Lake sticks but they don't soften fast enough, don't think they're keen on it. Same with the algae wafer, will use it less now. They're stuck with Nutrafin Spirulina flake with garlic for now. Haven't tried fresh veg yet...