Oily top

[New Boy]

Hello,

I've noticed recently that the surface water of my tank looks oily - kind of a thin film covering the whole top. I think it's made up of loads of tiny bits of something. I've done regular water changes and all the water parameters are ok, everytime I get rid of it it returns 24hrs later - anyone got any ideas what this could be?

Cheers

 

[mrV]

It's probably from food, fat/vegetables oil with or without bacteria.. You get rid of it putting your filter close to the water surface, so that it "breaks" surface. You can also use "bubling-machine" (air-pump and stone), it helps too removing film from the surface - bubles break that film.

 

[Fishsmurf]

Another way is to lift the edge of piece of kitchen roll and gently drag it along the surface. Sometimes this will also remove the film. Short term fix only though.....

 

[jumpman]

I have read that keeping Mollies will get rid of the oily film as they constantly skim the surface for food.

 

[silver]

Hi,
I've only noticed an oily film on my tank when I put hamburger meat in there (don't ask me why I did that) but that was the only time. Probably due to the fat in the cooked meat. EEEWWWW!

Silver