How do I control algae in planted tanks?
Written by
Kailani Okoro
Reviewed by
Prof. David Walsh, Ph.D.Managing algae involves balancing light, nutrients, and biological factors to achieve optimal growth conditions. To reduce lighting, you may want to limit lighting initially to about 6-8 hours a day. Managing nutrients is about limiting food sources for algae. Use algae-eating species that naturally clean up unwanted algae. Routine maintenance will help to keep aquariums free from algae.
Light Control
- Start with 6-hour photoperiods for new tanks
- Use timers for consistent daily schedules
- Position floating plants to filter intense light
Nutrient Balancing
- Maintain 10:1 nitrate-to-phosphate ratio
- Test water weekly for optimal levels
- Reduce feeding to limit excess nutrients
Biological Controls
- Introduce Amano shrimp for surface cleaning
- Add Nerite snails for glass algae
- Include Otocinclus for diatom removal
Identify algae type for targeted solutions. Green Spot Algae means low phosphate. Hair Algae means too much iron. Brown diatoms indicate silicates in newly established tanks. Black Beard Algae means you need more CO2. Each algae type can be dealt with in different ways.
Manual removal is a useful addition to the basic methods. Scrape the glass once a week during water changes. Use a toothbrush to clean algae off the hardscape. If leaves are affected, remove them right away. Vacuum the substrate to remove debris. Routine water changes of 25% are a good way to reset nutrient levels in the aquarium.
Avoid recurrence through plant health. Healthy, fast-growing plants outcompete algae. Provide proper fertilization without deficiencies. Provide good water circulation. Balance fish stocking levels. Consistent care will prevent most outbreaks of algae.
Read the full article: 15 Essential Aquarium Plant Types for Beginners
