Why have I got Algae
Small amounts of algae are natural and harmless, large amounts indicate that there is a water quality problem.Algae problems are usually caused by a number of factors rather than just one.
Algae in a biOrb Aquarium
Not all algae in an aquarium is necessarily 'bad'. A certain amount of Algae is inevitable where there is water, light and nutrients. However there are some things which can be done to reduce the amount of Algae if it becomes a nuisance or starts looking unsightly.
In order for Algae to grow it requires two things, light and water. Moving your biOrb or biUbe into a darker area of the room can dramatically reduce the amount of algae growth without the need to add any chemicals. The growth of Algae is also accelerated by excess nutrients in the water so another step would be to look at how much food you are using, some types of food will breakdown more easily and could be one of the reasons for excess algae growth. We would always recommend you use the food supplied with your Reef One aquarium, we test a wide range of fish foods in order to supply one which we believe is the best.
If your aquarium is in a dark corner already then cut down the length of time your light is switched on. 8 hours of light is sufficient for most aquariums.
If you are still experiencing problem and before you add any algae treatments do a partial water change using RO water (this can be supplied from most Marine Aquarium stores). RO water is purified water without the excessive nutrients which can be found in tap water.
Algae Checklist
Possible causes of Algae are:
- The aquarium is in a sunny position
- The light unit is on for more than 7 hours a day
- The fish are fed at least once a day
- The aquarium is well stocked with fish
- The last partial water change was more than 8 weeks ago
- The filter cartridge has not been changed for at least 8 weeks
- There is debris at the base of the aquarium
- There are no live plants in the aquarium
- Tap water is used for partial water changes
- Anti-algae treatments
