Algae Eaters

[Eveh]

So I've decided to come to the experts again.

I was wondering if I should buy an algae eater for my betta fish's tank. I believe my tank is 1.5 gallons big and it's collecting lots of algae. Not good right? I know I should clean his tank but it's a big hassle and I don't have much time anymore. Plus I'm out of stress coat so if I do clean his thank then hes on his own.

I was in the pet sore and about to buy a package of 3 filters, stress coat, and a new piece of decor he can hide in when I thought about algae eaters. And also sadly we didn't have the money at the time to buy anything I needed for him :c

So. Is it ok to get an algae eater for my Betta? What kind? What will they cost? And will they fight?

Thank you very much ^^

[eatmice2010]

No dont get the algea eater that is to small of a tank, i would try snails or shrimp. Because of me having those two i dont have to clean for algea

[eatmice2010]

in my 10g oops

[Fin Fancier]

1.5 gallons won't be able to handle an algae eater and a betta. I'd just up the amount of water changes and scrub it out well when you do, they don't need stress coat each time you change the water, just a good dechlorinator.

[Eveh]

So snails or shrimp are best for my tank but algae eaters not?

[eatmice2010]

yea but i would lean more tward a snail

[Eveh]

Snails are cuter anyway xD

[eatmice2010]

yessssssssssss lol :D

[Myates]

One nerite snail will do a good job at the algae - mystery snails aren't bad either, never have any algae in my NPTs with them in it. Careful to buy just one.. more than that they will breed like crazy and they add a ton of ammonia to the water (snails are dirty).
Can also buy algae scrapers to use to clean off the sides of the tank when you do your weekly water changes.

Also would look into how long your tank is lighted.. having too much light will cause the algae to grow - I would say no more than 10, possibly 12 hrs of light a day max.

[Silverfang]

I have a similar issue. My one boys tank is close to the window so lots of green. Just got a very active nerite today.