Question: Oily build-up on water surface, is this bad?

[AxieTails]

Ive always had an odd substance on the surface of the water of my axolotls tank. Lately the substance has looked different (less transparent) and i was wondering if this substance is bad for my axie. Also where does it come from, and if i should, how should i get rid of it?
any advice is welcome

 

[Blackbun]

This isn't uncommon. Possibly resulting from partial lipid breakdown from organic matter e.g. uneaten food or decaying plant. I get it on one tank but not the others. I either skim it off during water changes being careful not to mix it about too much or gently dragging a cloth over the surface. It'll return within 24 hours. Whilst break down of any organic material will result in changes in water quality such a layer could impact the diffusion of gases both oxygen into solution and carbon dioxide out. Nitrifying bacteria etc can deal with small amounts if given the opportunity by increasing surface water agitation or passage through the biological components of your filter.

 

[AxieTails]

I have used a cup to skim the surface of the water a few times so I'll make sure to do that more often. Thank you for the help.

 

[Felixtacat]

I used to get it really bad on my tank. A bubble bar with suction cups that I positioned near the surface helped a lot. I put it near the surface cuz my axie didn't seem to like the bubbles too much.


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