Algae eaters for the aquarium: A natural way to control algae
Algae in the aquarium are a common problem for many aquarists. While a few algae can be natural and even beneficial, an excess of algae can disturb the ecosystem in the aquarium. In this blog, we take a look at the causes of algae growth, prevention strategies, various types of algae, and introduce some of the most effective algae eaters.
Causes of Algae in the Aquarium
- Excessive Nutrients: Too much food and fish waste can lead to a nutrient surplus, which promotes algae growth.
- Imbalance in Lighting: Too much or too little lighting can promote algae.
- Poor Water Quality: Insufficient water changes and filtration can support algae growth.
Prevention: Preventing Algae in the Aquarium
- Regular Water Changes: Keep the water fresh and clean to avoid nutrient surpluses.
- Balanced Lighting: Ensure your aquarium does not receive too much direct sunlight and regulate artificial light.
- Control Feeding: Do not overfeed your fish and remove excess food.
Types of Algae at a Glance
- Green Algae: Common and relatively easy to control.
- Blue-Green Algae (Cyanobacteria): Can occur in poor water quality and are more difficult to combat.
- Brush and Beard Algae: Harder, bristle-like algae that often occur in aquariums with fluctuating CO2 levels.
The Most Effective Algae Eaters
Fish as algae controllers can be effective partners in tackling algae problems in your aquarium. However, keep in mind that some types of algae eaters, especially larger ones, require sufficient space and should therefore only be kept in larger aquariums. They are often welcome residents in aquariums as they help reduce algae formation on the glass walls.
- Otocinclus Catfish: These catfish are known as tireless algae eaters. A few in your aquarium effectively help to free plants and decorations from algae and keep the glass clean. However, if they start nibbling on plant shoots, this may indicate a lack of food, which should be compensated by additional feeding. Otocinclus catfish, which should be kept in groups, are sociable animals and get along well with other peaceful fish. They are, however, shy and prone to stress, so their tank mates should be chosen accordingly. With a maximum size of about 4 cm, they are also suitable for smaller aquariums from a length of 80 cm, provided that the tank is well established and planted to provide enough food.
- Plecostomus: Plecostomus grow up to 15 cm, significantly larger than Otocinclus catfish, and therefore require larger tanks, ideally from 80 cm in length for a pair. A male often prefers a small harem of two to three females. In a community aquarium, the tank needs to be correspondingly larger to accommodate all inhabitants.
- Siamese Algae Eater: This fish species specializes in the removal of stubborn brush algae in aquariums. A group of six to seven individuals can clean an algae-infested tank within two weeks. However, their appetite for algae decreases with age, so younger fish are more effective. After the algae are reduced, additional feeding is necessary. Siamese Algae Eaters can grow up to 17 cm and should live in groups of at least seven animals in aquariums with at least 150 cm in length or a volume of about 450 liters.
- Siamese Flying Fox: With their elongated bodies, Siamese Flying Foxes reach a length of up to 15 cm. They require an aquarium with at least 150 cm in length and 200 to 300 liters in volume. They are effective in algae reduction, especially against brush and thread algae, and should be kept in groups of at least five individuals. If all preferred algae are consumed, additional feeding is necessary. A silvery-matte longitudinal stripe indicates stress and signals that the fish are uncomfortable.
- Suckermouth Catfish: Suckermouth Catfish, which can grow up to 25 cm and live up to 20 years, are effective algae cleaners. They prefer to live in groups of at least seven individuals and feel most comfortable in an aquarium with a volume of at least 450 liters. Their adaptation to strong currents in their natural habitat makes them experts in holding onto surfaces. They should not be kept with discus fish to prevent them from attaching to these.
Conclusion
Algae in the aquarium can be a challenge, but with the right prevention methods and the help of algae eaters, the problem can be managed. It is important to maintain a balance in the aquarium and understand the causes of algae growth. With a well-maintained aquarium and the support of products from Aquaris, some of the mentioned algae eaters can create a healthy and algae-free environment for your fish.
Leave your comment