Does anyone know what kind of algae this is? Also maybe the implications this algae says about the health of my tank? Just curious! ![Smile :) :)](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
Thank you for the reply!Black brush algae, though it doesn't really matter as any species of what I call "problem" algae is caused by, and solved by, the same thing. It is due to an imbalance of light and nutrients. Stopping it from increasing is the goal, and that is achieved (in planted tanks) by re-establishing the balance.
Data on your light is needed. Intensity/type, and spectrum (this looks pretty good, so likely not the issue). But duration might be--the light can only be on if all nutrients are available for the plants to use, otherwise algae has an advantage. How long is the tank light on? And room light, especially in summer, also factors in.
As for nutrients, some come from the fish being fed, and water changes. Sometimes we need to supplement these. So are you using any fertilizers?
Usually not a problem at such minimal levels, but if the imbalance is there as it has to be, it obviously can get much worse and quickly.
Thank you for the reply!
I’m not quite sure the intensity of the light, I use the Aqueon Optibright Max. Turns on (white light and rgb lights) at 7:30 am, lights dim at 7:30/off at 8 and blue lights from 8-10. (To mimic moonlight) - also yes I know it’s on for quite awhile but I love seeing the tank when I get home from work. I use root tabs with iron every few months as well as flourish liquid fertilizer. I was hoping my snails/loaches would eat it but I suppose it’s not something they’re interested in
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