BBA Question

[luckydud13]

What causes it, and how can it be stopped?
If I am right, there are three things that insure a plant to grow.
Light- I have enough to were glosso is spreading
Ferts- I have a pre mixed pack from aquariumfertalizers, I doubt this is the problem
Co2-I have none in this tank, is this the problem?

Thanks

 

[stezatois]

check out this link. Theres info u want there. http://www.aquahobby.com/articles/e_freshwater_algae.php

 

[jpappy789]

Without Co2 your plants aren't going to make use of the nutrients you are putting in, thus algae is capitalizing on the excess stuff in your water.

Depending on tank size and lighting you can either go DIY or pressurized.

 

[luckydud13]

Probably diy, its a 5.5

 

[petluvr]

From what I understand usually high phosphates is what causes it. Are you wanting to get rid of it (because you have it) or wanting to prevent it from happening?

 

[luckydud13]

That link had little info on my kind of algae, but regardless I am saving as a bookmark :thumbsup:

 

[luckydud13]

From what I understand usually high phosphates is what causes it. Are you wanting to get rid of it (because you have it) or wanting to prevent it from happening?

I have it, it isn't horrible yet, but I want to stop it before it gets out of control.

 

[jpappy789]

DIY will help with a smaller tank like yours. With your tank you are replenishing the Co2 with water changes but those levels will decrease as the plants use it up. Then when it comes time for a wc, you're back in the cycle. I would definitely try it.

 

[petluvr]

Set up DIY co2 as suggested. BBA tends to be one of the more difficult algaes to get rid of. Spot treating with excel or peroxide are two of the most common treatments.

 

[joestyx]

my SAE (siamese algae eater) munched all of mine up in no time, i had it bad in my 55 after i bought a big amazon sword plant that was infested with it.....all gone now and never has come back, but i do have DIY c02 as well