Algae and cyanobacteria can plague the freshwater aquarium. In this video we discuss the different factors (light, nutrient load, etc.) that can play a role in algae’s ability to take over the aquarium. Preventing and even eliminating visible algae is possible without using nasty chemicals that so many may go to in a last dich effort. Many think light and or nutrient load to be the sole cause of algae but in reality the problem is much more complicated. Sometimes it’s just one nutrient or one wavelength of light that a particular cyanobacteria or algae is taking advantage of. This can make the problem much harder to solve, but it also means we don’t have to alter as many parameters to get rid of the pest. Trial and error can be a central theme when it comes to getting rid of algae in the aquarium and one should not be discouraged if at first they don’t succeed.

 

     Preventing algae should be the number one priority, not trying to get rid of it once it shows up. Keeping a balanced aquarium that does not experience big swings in light, nutrients, pH and other factors will help keep your system in check. We will be expanding on this topic soon with our Guide to Preventing and Eliminating Algae.