beard algea

Question
Hi Karen

I'm having problem with beard algea and is getting worst day by day. It will be a pleasure if you could help me to remove this out as i'm getting sick of it. I have 5 algea eater but they don't eat them.

Thanking you

Jeff  

Answer
Hello Jeff,
Because algae is primarily caused by two important elements in the aquarium--light and nutrients, and a off balance or overload of either or both causes these algae problems. Searching into the cause of the algae is a key factor for lessening the growth if not eliminating it.
*Make sure your aquarium is recieving no more than 12 hours of light--if you have no live plants-- you can simply keep the light off when you are not home or when you're not viewing your fish.
High nutrients are also a major cause of Algae of any sort.
Increase your water changes, in larger percentages and try doing them at least twice a week. Always remember to dechlorinate your replacement water and equalize the temperature to that of your aquarium to avoid stressing your fish.

Not every algae eater eats every algae present. Siamese algae eaters are claimed to graze brush algae. But many species only prefer the nice smooth green variety that grows in sheets on the sides or rocks and plants.

~It is possible to maintain an aquarium with no algae and with no algae eater present. The key is to keep up with frequent water changes to eliminate too much nutrients present from fish food and all wasted organic matter. And regulate the light levels, maintaining a natural day and night cycle with the aquarium light on for no more than 12 hours.

Remember that a little algae is natural and fine for your aquarium. But excess is just about always a sign there is a underlying cause that can harm your fish-such as polluted water.
Manuel removal is also very effective if you can with Beard algae. Some sources say a unused toothbrush works well. But I also have had luck in the past with simply using no tools of that sort! ;-)

I really hope this helps! Good luck and feel free to email me with anymore questions you may have....
Happy fishkeeping!
Karen~