Why is my Gravel Full of Algae?

Question

I have had new gravel in my fishtank for about 6 monthes. And it is very green with Algae. Is there a way to clean up the gravel a bit, or techniques?

Answer 1

there are 3 possible reasons your have algae on your gravel

1. sunlight is hitting your tank
2. you leave your light on to long (only 10-12 hours during the day and off for 12-14 hours at night)
3. you're overfeeding your fish


The best way to get rid of it, is by darkening the tank for at least 5 days, which means, take a blanket and put it over your tank
no light, no algae



Hope that helps
Good luck



EB

Answer 2

Sunlight can even turn the gravol green with algea, not just the tank. Anyways, there are two solutions. One, remove the fish, and all tank accessories such as plants, rocks etc. After you have removed everything removie the water and remove gravel. Rinse gravel in hot water, and also wash any tank accessories.
Second, you could purchase one of those pump/tube gravol cleaners. Although it is faster than the first suggestions, the first one would be much more affective.

Answer 3

Sounds like you are either overfeeding your fish, or sunlight is hitting your tank, which will cause it, or your water supply is high in nitrates. Or a combination of them. Try doing more water changes - at least 25% a week, dont overfeed your fish, and buy a plecostomus. They love munching algae. (assuming you have a tropical setup, of course).

Answer 4

water + sun light = algae

you have to clean out your gravel every time you chagne your water, that will porecvent it rom getting too dirty