Algae In Canister Filter Tubing.

[Alexp08]

There is quite a build up of algae in the inlet and outlet tubing that run from my filter to my tank. Everytime i clean the filter and or change any of the media, when i restart the filter algae breaks of the walls of the tubes and goes into the take. The tubing is green so light is able to pass through it. Im thinking about changing the tubing to black, would this help? or would the algae still grow in the tubes? anything else i can do to stop this build up? This is a planted tank so im afraid that the algae is also sucking up the nutrients before they get to the plants. Thanks

 

[techen]

No matter what colour of tube you have algae will still grow inside it. Just need to live with it sadly, You can get a pipe cleaner brush and shove it through the hoses though. Should clear up most of it.

 

[SeanTrollope]

like techen said you have to live with it

 

[Byron]

Agree.  But I would question if this stuff is algae, or simply organic debris.
 
Black brush algae is common around filter intakes and outlets, due perhaps to the water flow which brings nutrients.  This is not easy to remove, and it takes some scrubbing with a brush.
 
The brownish stuff that can collect along the tubing and is dislodged more easily, such as when the filter is turned back on after cleaning, is not algae.  This can be flushed through; I periodically remove the tubing when I clean the canister and in the sink or bathtub (latter can be easier as this can get messy in a small sink) I flush very hot water in one end and swish it back and forth.  Most of the gunk will be dislodged and flow out.
 
You do want to do this periodically, as this stuff can build up and slow down the flow, even to the point of nearly stopping it.
 
Byron.