does algae increase filtration?

[mode_12]

hey everyone, i have question about algae this time.

i was reading about algae, and how it can really help reduce the nitrates, oxygenate the system, and provide a good meal to the fish. i was wondering though, does too much green algae produce problem spots, or produce an excess of waste? i thought i remember reading macro algae is great stuff for your tank, but what about green microalgae?

thanks for your time

 

[Squawkbert]

Look up (google) "algal turf scrubber"

Most consider green algae wo be unsightly, but it can be beneficial. The turf scrubber is a bucket type wave generator that is lept under a light and has a surface that's rough enough to support algae. The theory is that a thick mat of healthy algae will build up on the thing as a result of the light and unwanted stuff from your reef tank's water column (all manor of N compounds, phosphates etc.). Once established, the algae also adds a bit of a mechanical element, so that it continues to filter the nasties out of the water even more efficiently.

It sounds good in theory, but you would need a good sized hood to accomodate one and you have to be willing to hear the bucket dumping every few minutes...

 

[fsn77]

Well, technically green microalgae in your tank would be removing nutrients just like any macroalgae would, but it's a bit harder to control and can have a negative effect on your corals if it starts to grow on them. Most herbivorous fish will also dine on microalgae, providing them with a food source within the tank.