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How Do You Prevent Algae Spread?
Posted: Sat Sep 13, 2025 7:24 pm
by liluba
My tank's been getting overrun with algae lately, and I'm not sure what's causing it. I've got a 20-gallon with Java Fern, Anubias, and some floating plants. Lights are on for 8 hours, and I do weekly water changes. Any tips?
Re: How Do You Prevent Algae Spread?
Posted: Tue Sep 16, 2025 9:58 am
by giggle
Algae can be a real pain. First, check your nitrate levels. High nitrates often fuel algae growth. Also, consider reducing your light duration to 6 hours. Floating plants like Duckweed can help by shading the tank. What's your current nitrate reading?
Re: How Do You Prevent Algae Spread?
Posted: Tue Sep 16, 2025 10:09 am
by coldheart
Lighting is usually the culprit. I'd cut it back to 6 hours and see if that helps. Also, make sure you're not overfeeding. Excess food decays and adds to the problem.
Re: How Do You Prevent Algae Spread?
Posted: Tue Sep 16, 2025 1:03 pm
by mounta7
giggle wrote: ↑Tue Sep 16, 2025 9:58 am
Algae can be a real pain. First, check your nitrate levels. High nitrates often fuel algae growth. Also, consider reducing your light duration to 6 hours. Floating plants like Duckweed can help by shading the tank. What's your current nitrate reading?
I agree with this. Nitrates are key. I'd also add that adding more fast-growing plants like Hornwort can outcompete algae for nutrients.
Re: How Do You Prevent Algae Spread?
Posted: Thu Sep 18, 2025 7:06 am
by liluba
Thanks for the advice, everyone. I'll test my nitrates today and try reducing the light. I've got some Duckweed coming in the mail, so hopefully that helps too.
Re: How Do You Prevent Algae Spread?
Posted: Thu Sep 18, 2025 7:40 am
by downtown
Another thing to consider is your water flow. Poor circulation can create dead spots where algae thrives. What kind of filter are you using?
Re: How Do You Prevent Algae Spread?
Posted: Thu Sep 18, 2025 8:49 am
by crafty7
I had the same issue until I started using a timer for my lights. Now they're on a strict schedule, and the algae's chilled out. Also, nerite snails are great for cleaning up the mess.
Re: How Do You Prevent Algae Spread?
Posted: Thu Sep 18, 2025 11:51 am
by verdant
I've found that keeping the tank clean and doing small, frequent water changes helps a lot. Algae loves dirty water, so staying on top of maintenance is key.
Re: How Do You Prevent Algae Spread?
Posted: Thu Sep 18, 2025 2:03 pm
by toughguy2
Yep, cut the light and up the water changes. That's the way to go. Also, maybe throw in some shrimp if your tankmates allow it. They're algae-eating machines.
Re: How Do You Prevent Algae Spread?
Posted: Thu Sep 18, 2025 4:00 pm
by oceanis
verdant wrote: ↑Thu Sep 18, 2025 11:51 am
I've found that keeping the tank clean and doing small, frequent water changes helps a lot. Algae loves dirty water, so staying on top of maintenance is key.
Exactly. Consistency is everything. I do 10% changes twice a week, and it keeps things in check.