algae?

[sharelkaye]

It seems that i have algae growing rapid in my axolotl tank no matter how much i clean it i find more. What is the best way to prevent or get rid of algae with out harming my babies?

 

[Blackhawk IV]

where have you sited your tank? if it is in direct sunlight, that can make algae grow rapidly. also if you have your tank lights on all day, that will make the algae bloom. turning off your lights is a simple way to stunt algae growth without harming your axies.
some pet shops also sell algae 'removers' or something like that that is supposed to get rid of the algae. however take it with caution. read the label as it may contain harmful chemicals.

 

[ianclick]

Hi Shaye,

What do you have for your tank filtration?

 

[Kal El]

Hello Sharelkaye,

Here is a thread that discusses problems with algae:

http://www.caudata.org/forum/showthread.php?t=53539

Jay.

 

[gbhil]

1. Out compete the algae for nutrients in the water with many other plants.
or
2. Decrease the amount of light.
or
3. Decrease the amount of nutrients.

I always like number one, as I'm a plantgeek.
Number two is pretty self explanatory, decrease the amount of light by time OR intensity.
Number three is probably the best solution, but also involves the most work. Keep nitrates, phosphorous, potassium, and micronutrients in check with frequent small water changes. Careful that the water your using doesn't have a high level of nitrates or phosphates (check with your water company) or you could be making it worse instead of better.

 

[Jennewt]

Fighting algae is not like fighting weeds: with weeds, you want to eradicate every last one. With algae, it's beneficial to ALLOW some algae to grow in places where it doesn't look too bad. The algae left there will eat up the nutrients, thus discouraging algae growth in other places. See:
http://www.caudata.org/cc/articles/Tank_critters.shtml

 

[sharelkaye]

Thanks for all the help. The light it was on the big problems because i forget to turn it off everyonce in a while. Also my tank is due for a water change anyway. plus i need to check my filter thanks again.