OK Ive had a planted tank for about a year now , ho lights and refer . in a 55 gal tank and fluval.?

Question

the hair alge is just killing me ive done 2 bleach dips of the plants and it works for a while. been considering a co2 system , plant growth is good but ive heard a higher co2 leavle will pretty much do in the hair alge . anyone know this for a fact is it worth the $250 for a good system , to get rid of the algee ill pay but would rather only do it if its effictive in getting rid of the hair alge

would rather have a strata heater first.

all help and tips welcoms

thanks.

Answer 1

Algae is so difficult to prevent because it doesn't need to have balanced nutrients like plants do. By providing high lighting, you are offering both the algae and plants only one form of nourishment. This means that the plants cannot grow at full capacity. By adding CO2 and fertilizer in the proper balance, your plants will grow much faster, using up nutrients faster, preventing algae from growing... There are some cheaper CO2 systems that work very well (most under $75). This site has loads of options for any budget... http://www.aquariumplants.com/CO2_Accessories_s/50.htm Contact me if you have any questions.

Soop Nazi

EDIT: This reactor is really efficient for its price, and you can use your Fluval to provide water flow. http://www.aquariumplants.com/product_p/am-73011.htm

Answer 2

The CO2 system is not a bad idea, but first check your water for high iron content, especially if you know your municipality is taking water from an underground aquifer or your own home source is from a well. Iron encourages algae growth.

Also, how long are you leaving the light on in your tank? 10-12 hours should be sufficient for your plants. If you're leaving your lights on all night, algae will likely grow at a faster rate. Ditto if your tank is getting direct sunlight during the day.

Finally, judicious application of a good plant fertilizer will increase your plant growth and in turn discourage algae from taking over the tank. I emphasize 'judicious' because too much could kill your plants and make your algae problem even worst. Check the directions for the correct measurement per the size of your tank and water quality.

You haven't done the old-fashioned way of just raking the gunk out an old toothbrush, btw? With a big tank it may be just a pointless pain in the butt, but it's cheap and beats knitting as a way to spend a rainy weekend.... ;-)

Have kept fish for maybe 'way too long.....

Answer 3

Just build a DIY Co2, and see it if makes any difference before you go out and spend the money,

Answer 4

I'm not clear what type of tank this is. If it's saltwater, then I don't know. But if it's fresh water, all you need are some mollies or rosy barbs. I got rosy barbs and they ate all the hair algae and it never came back. If you have long finned fish, you will need at least 2 because they tend to be fin-nippers if you have only one.