Brown Algae

[lancerland]

Are there any specific type of snail that will get at the algae better then the rest, I noticed that I have somewhat of a small algae problem. I wanted to get an otto, but I am on the border of being overstocked as it is.

Any help in this matter would be appreciated,

Thanks

 

[Nolapete]

If the only fish you have are those listed in your sig, you can get one or more otos and be fine.

 

[lancerland]

Really, That would be Ideal, since I have heard horror stories about Snails reproducing exponentially. What kinda ottos would you suggest?

 

[mellowvision]

whatever you can find! they're all the same except for markings, if I remember what i have read. I have 3... 2 are very similar, but one is much lighter in color and is spotted. they all have the same features otherwise.

 

[Marinemom]

If you decide to get some ottos I would get at least a trio of them since they prefer to be in groups and play better that way. They love the brown algae but be forwarned that once the brown algae is gone you will have to suppliment their diet. Some of them will eat other things and some will not. If they do not want other food, then you run the risk of them starving to death. If you are on the verge of being overstocked it might be best to just remove the brown algae manually. It is easy to remove and even if you do nothing about it, in time it will go away on it's own. This kind of algae is actually called diatoms and is very common in new tank setups; usually ones that are set up less then a year. It is caused from the silicates in the aquarium glass that leach out into the water. It is not harmful to the fish and as I said will eventually go away on it's own. However, it is unsightly so I would consider just manually removing it until the problem resolves itself.

Marinemom

 

[mellowvision]

it's true. mine were real champs for a few weeks, and lately have not been cleaning as dilligently, since the brown algae is mostly gone, and they don't seem to go for the bba as often.

 

[lancerland]

Well I got 2 of them last night, I just read that I should have a trio, so I might go get another one tonight. The guy tried to sell me some sort of albino dwarf pleco, not sure the exact name but he said it only go to about 4 inches, which with my current stock would probably be to big. O well I put them in there, and they seem to be doing ok.

Thanks for the advice.

 

[J double R]

in a 10 gallon? i REALLY hope you have a contingency plan.. that algae is going to be gone in less than one week, and those otos are going to be very hungry.

 

[lancerland]

Well my plan was to try some Algae wafers, and if those dont work then some Zucchini, Brussel Sprouts, Romaine Lettuce, Spinach. Whatever I can get them to eat.

 

[J double R]

as long as you have a plan. looks good to me.