bought a new fish tank and i wanted to know if the snails would eat the alage
2007-01-28 14:05:22 · 6 answers · asked by Anonymous in Pets ➔ Fish
Snails will keep the algae down, but I would recommend staying away from them. Most snails will produce so many offspring that they will eventually dominate the tank.
Generally, when you have high algae growth in an aquarium, your nitrate levels are nearing the danger zone. You can purchase additives that will neutralize ammonia and nitrate, but the best (and cheapest) method is regular water changes. Twenty percent once a month is plenty, assuming your tank isn't overcrowded.
You can also include fish such as Plecostumos (Plecos) or Chinese Algae Eaters. Chinese Algae Eaters tend to become aggressive as they get older and Plecos can outgrow the tank. There are also several small species of algae eaters. Your local pet shop can help you. You can also add a couple of Mollies if you have a community tank. The thrive in brackish water, but they will do just fine in fresh water.
I hope this helps! Good luck!
2007-01-28 14:36:31 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 1⤋
Depends on the snails. Some of the bigger ones are not very great algae eaters.
Only some snails reproduce really fast. Bigger snails like mystery snails don't reproduce very often, and the few times they actually do, they lay their eggs above the water line so they are really easy to remove.
But even the small snails that reproduce quickly will not overpopulate the tank if you maintain your tank properly. As long as you change water weekly, and do not overfeed, they do not become a problem. I have 3 different species of "pest" snails in all of my tanks, I maintain my tanks properly and have never had them overpopulate any tank in the 6 years I have had them.
2007-01-28 22:36:33 · answer #2 · answered by fish guy 5 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Yes, Snails clean tanks, but you should still CYCLE your tank before adding anything and remember snails multiply fast...
2007-01-28 22:25:46 · answer #3 · answered by Shaebee27 3 · 3⤊ 1⤋
Yes they will. But remember that snails are prolific breeders and can take over your tank!!
2007-01-28 22:36:39 · answer #4 · answered by LC 2 · 1⤊ 1⤋
Do you even have algae yet? Don't jump the gun. If you maintain the water properly you can avoid algae altogether.
2007-01-29 06:18:55 · answer #5 · answered by bzzflygirl 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
yes
2007-01-28 23:06:31 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋