the following is something i copied off a web sight:
start quote"
The Natural Solution to Algae Control
Now you can promote a healthier ecosystem for your aquarium or pond by using authentic Scottish Barley Straw, a technique which has been employed since the Middle Ages to naturally promote an ALGAE FREE environment. 100% safe for ALL wildlife, including the most delicate shrimp, fish, and plants because it is 100% natural and biodegradable.
In the aquarium, install a small portion (about a handful) of barley in your canister or hanging filter, or sump. We recommend using a micron filter bag (see below). Our small 4oz size should last a normal home aquarists, a long time.
In your pond, install it in your waterfall spillway, skimmer basket, or just throw it in anywhere! Most smaller ponds will require the 4 or 8 ounce size barley straw. (4 & 8 oz barley come already packaged in a mesh bag, the 30lb bale comes with 3 mesh bags)
Here are some other important features:
These are made from High Grade Scottish Barley (the same kind high quality Scotch is made from)(NO. Not the kind of straw you might find in a cattle-feed store!)
They are fully biodegradable.
They can provide natural food for your fish.
Each bundle comes with it's own sturdy mesh bag. 30# bales will come with three (24x36) mesh bags.
This method can be started any time of year, new or old.
No chemicals used ever in the processing of this barley!
"end quote
I got this off of a very reputable online aquarium plant store.
I'm not saying that this does not work but could someone explain how it works?
start quote"
The Natural Solution to Algae Control
Now you can promote a healthier ecosystem for your aquarium or pond by using authentic Scottish Barley Straw, a technique which has been employed since the Middle Ages to naturally promote an ALGAE FREE environment. 100% safe for ALL wildlife, including the most delicate shrimp, fish, and plants because it is 100% natural and biodegradable.
In the aquarium, install a small portion (about a handful) of barley in your canister or hanging filter, or sump. We recommend using a micron filter bag (see below). Our small 4oz size should last a normal home aquarists, a long time.
In your pond, install it in your waterfall spillway, skimmer basket, or just throw it in anywhere! Most smaller ponds will require the 4 or 8 ounce size barley straw. (4 & 8 oz barley come already packaged in a mesh bag, the 30lb bale comes with 3 mesh bags)
Here are some other important features:
These are made from High Grade Scottish Barley (the same kind high quality Scotch is made from)(NO. Not the kind of straw you might find in a cattle-feed store!)
They are fully biodegradable.
They can provide natural food for your fish.
Each bundle comes with it's own sturdy mesh bag. 30# bales will come with three (24x36) mesh bags.
This method can be started any time of year, new or old.
No chemicals used ever in the processing of this barley!
"end quote
I got this off of a very reputable online aquarium plant store.
I'm not saying that this does not work but could someone explain how it works?