Learn About Aquarium Biofilms 

     Biofilms play a major role in the aquarium whether you can see them or not… In this video we highlight the annoying water surface films that are often associated with aquariums that have high carbon inputs and little to no surface agitation. Comprised of thousands of different microbes, biofilms can be found on basically every surface of the aquarium; (rocks, glass, driftwood, plant leaves, etc.) just to name a few. These diverse microbial films are responsible for the carbon breakdown and nutrient mineralization cycles that are important for the health of our fish and plants.  Surface water films however are not beneficial and actually may have negative effects.

 

     A thick film will block vital gas exchange and can make things worse for an already oxygen limited aquarium. To prevent a film like this, all one has to do is create some surface water movement via a filter like the DIY surface skimmer or a simple circulating pump. Circulation alone should be enough to prevent and even get rid of an existing film.