View Full Version : I want algae in my tank!!!!
Mantis_22
05-17-2003, 9:34 PM
Same as topic, I have a 10 gallon and I wanna know how can I grow algae. There is a flouresant bulb in it and I run it about 12 - 15 hours a day. And still none, how can I get some in this tank?
thom336
05-18-2003, 5:48 AM
Keep the length of time you have your light on constant, so it goes on and off at the same times every day - algae are sensitive to changes in their photosynthesis cycle. Dont keep your water conditions too prestine (but of course dont let it get bad, with your fish in mind) as algae needs something to feed off of.
But I must ask the question: Why??
Thom.
Mantis_22
05-18-2003, 3:23 PM
ottos
Skittyfish
05-18-2003, 5:29 PM
add a few drops of fleet enema, that will raise your phosphate level, and algae will flourish with food.
Remember though, Ottos don't eat all types of algae. Mine like zuchini:p .
Mantis_22
05-18-2003, 9:20 PM
yeah ive been giving them zucchini for awhile now, just asking questions :P. So by the way, hows that pond project going skitty?
Skittyfish
05-19-2003, 8:43 AM
It's not. At least for now. Maybe this fall.
Mantis_22
05-20-2003, 9:14 PM
oh... :o
kreblak
05-21-2003, 12:34 PM
Algae like two things in water: phosphates and dissolved nutrients. Adding Fleet enema will increase phosphates, but I'm a little concerned about the effect it might have on your fish's collective digestive systems! ;)
To increase the amount of dissolved nutrients in the water, try overfeeding. That is a sure way crank up the level of crud in your water.
Of course, it is possible that your ottos are eating the algae as it grows, hence the fact you don't seem to have any...
Rocketman
05-23-2003, 6:27 PM
I have noticed that my Oto's don't eat thicker algae on the glass - they go for algae on rocks and plants, (especially plants) first. They DO NOT eat hair algae, nor whatever type of algae it sprouts out of.
glittergirl
05-24-2003, 4:40 AM
When I first had my otos, they ate any and all algae, even 'hair algae', they stripped the tank clean. They must have been really hungry! After 6 weeks though, I've noticed they are a bit more selective. My otos prefer the algae on plants and rocks rather than on the glass, so I have to get rid of the green algae if it builds up. I have just discovered they like zucchini too. :)