Algae

[cle_tribe]

Hello all, this is my first post as I am new here. I have two questions. I recently started up a 55 gallon tank and I am using a Penguin Biowheel 330 filter and a Penguin Biowheel 175. I use both to maintain good water circulation. 1) Anyone have any insight as to whether this is too much or is there such a thing as too much filtration? Unfortunately, I cannot center the bigger filter as my tank has a center hood support. 2) I have one pleco, 3 bala's (small), 3 serpa tatras, a pictus catfish, and 2 swordtails (unfortunately I just lost one swordtail so I have two now). I have recently noticed a reddish brown algae growth in the tank on the filter intake tubes and the fake plants. My question is, can I use an algae eliminating product in the tank and not disturb the pleco?

Thanks kevin (cle_tribe)

[famman]

Welcome to Aquaria Central. I've always wanted to be the first to welcome a new user.

Your filtration sounds fine, many on this board overfilter.

Yes, you could probably use an algae rid or something, but the algae you mention is probably just brown algae, a favorite food for Otocinclus affinus (marie, vittatus, etc). The balas will try to eat them when the balas get bigger, but for now a few otos (5), would certainly do the job.

Anyone else want to jump in to prevent me from giving the newbie bad advise?

good luck
:)

[125gJoe]

http://gordon.sourcecod.com/images/flagicons/american_flag.gif
Great advice! Welcome to "AC"! (short form..)

While overfiltering is nice, too much water flow in the tank may not be good for some species.

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