Otos and brown algae

[jajjaj]

I have brown algae in my tank, so from reading entries in this forum I decided to go to my LFS to get some Otos. The girl in the shop didn't know what they were, and they hadn't got any anyway, but said that brown algae was toxic to fish and i should leave the aquarium light off for a few days. Knowing the reputation of the knowledge of LFS employees, I presume she's talking rot - but can someone confirm this please?

Can't swear I'm right on this, but I'm pretty sure that brown algae thrives when there's not enough light. Can't speak for toxicity. Did have one fish die, but I think it was for other reasons....

 

[jajjaj]

Its bad allright, but its not TOXIC to your fish... Now your fish will not eat brown algea, only the soft green stuff. The best thing to do is remove whatever decorations and plants have been "infected." Then soak them for 15 min or so in a 10% hot bleach solution. Rub off any remaining algae, and put back in the tank after air drying.

Are you sure about the bleach? I was told you should just wipe the brown algae off and that it is very bad to use bleach or other cleansers on fish equipment....