Out of control algae!!!

[bettababe321]

I posted before about my algae problem in Captains and for a while it went away with weekly water changes. But now my tank is COVERED in the stuff and I did a 30% water change on Sunday!!! I don't know what else to do!!! Would 3 ottos be ok in a five gallon? Please help!!!

[bettababe321]

First sentence is supposed to say "in Captains tank" not "in Captains" type-o sorry!

[BakaMandy]

Algae will flourish in waters with high concentrations of nitrogen (in this case probably nitrate (over 10pp will promote algae), unless you have live plants where as the plant fertilizer probably has nitrogen in it to help plant growth).

Nitrate levels will always continue to escalate for as long as you have a cycled tank (water changes will only drop the nitrate a little). If weekly water changes don't help, you may have to change the water anywhere for twice to three times a week if it's that bad.

Worst comes to worst, do a 100% water change to reset it and start over. :S

[bettababe321]

ok thanks for the info! what do you think about adding otos or snails?

[iheartmyfishies]

Otos, snails, and Chinese algae eaters would all work. But it depends on the temperament of your betta. It's not a good idea if he's very aggressive.

[bettababe321]

He's not very agressive, I'm just worried about putting them in such a small tank

[iheartmyfishies]

You might be able to get away with five gallons if you do frequent water changes. Like once or twice weekly.

[Jupiter]

I really wouldn't reccomend a Chinese Algae Eater. They're peaceful when they're young, but when they grow older not only do they stop eating algae, but they get rather aggressive as well. Plus 5 gallons would be much too small for one, I think you need at least 25 gallons.

[dramaqueen]

I agree with Jupiter about the Chinese algae eater.

[iheartmyfishies]

Good to know!