Goldfish aquarium algae how to#

They also do extremely well in planted aquariums because they’re not known to typically damage the plants when grazing for algae.Ĭhinese algae eaters have been around the aquarium trade for a while. Not only will they eat some of the least appetizing forms of algae, they’ll also help control flatworm populations and eat leftover detritus in the aquarium. Their generally peaceful nature and ability to eat and control a wide range of algae (including the dreaded Black Beard algae) makes them an asset to almost any aquarium. Siamese algae eaters are the algae-eating powerhouses of the fishkeeping world. This particular pleco alge-eater will do well in aquariums that have driftwood and plenty of hiding spots. This means that they can be quite the dramatic addition to an aquarium. They’re also commonly available in different color varieties, namely gold or albino. Males develop large whiskery growths on their faces, something that seems appropriate for an aquatic janitor. On top of their impressive algae-eating abilities, they’re capable of being quite the conversation starter. This makes them a valuable alternative to the very common “Sucker Fish” (Hypostomus Plecostomus) that grows to almost two feet long. These weird little guys only grow to be around 4in long, allowing them to fit into most medium-sized community aquariums. What Are The Best Algae-Eating Fish?īristlenose Plecostomus (Bristlenose plecos)īristlenose plecos are a great addition to most aquariums. Whether you want to learn more about starting a new aquarium or just more advanced nuances to clean your system for better tank photography, this article will explain our favorite options. Assuming you keep your water quality clean and stable, you’ll mainly just have to focus on making sure that the different personalities for your aquatic citizens mesh well together. Luckily, most commercially available algae-eaters can thrive within a wide range of water parameters. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to algae-eating solutions for an aquarium. Density of Foliage/Hardscape: What density of foliage and hardscape do you currently have in your tank? How will that affect a potential algae eater?īe very careful in your research of algae-eaters to make sure that you are creating a match made in aquarium heaven.In deciding which type of algae-eater to add to your tank, it’s important to consider the personalities and husbandry needs of your current tank inhabitants as well as the algae-eater you’re looking to add to your aquarium.Does your speed of current rule out any algae eating critters? Speed of Current: Some algae eaters like lots of current but, for others, it’s kind of stressful.

Oxygenation Levels: What are the oxygenation levels in your tank? Pick an algae eater that matches the same requirements as your existing ecosystem.Do your current fish or critters mesh well with your chosen algae eater? Activity and Aggression Levels of Tank Mates: This is a very important question to ask.

Take inventory of existing factors in your tank to select the right algae eater:īesides looking at the water parameters that a given fish can survive and, hopefully, thrive in, it’s necessary to consider other important facets of a tank’s ecosystem and its inhabitants. Instead, “algae-eaters” should be understood to describe a rather large group of fish and invertebrates, each with their own specific needs and requirements for your tank type. Most people have only a very general idea of what algae-eaters are, typically only associating the term with just one or two very popular species.

Goldfish aquarium algae how to#

How To Choose the Best Algae Eaters for Your Aquariumįirst, we should probably discuss a basic but important question: what is an algae eater? Let us know what we missed in the comments below. Read this article to learn how to choose a new clean-up crew for your tank. Because of how important these fish are to your aquarium, it is essential that you learn how they can naturally clean up your system so you can stay away from harsh chemicals. From fish, to shrimp, to snails we will cover our favorites for eating algae in your tank. Algae eaters have long been an integral part of the aquarium-keeping hobby for balancing the natural ecosystem we are all trying to replicate.ĭue to their expertise in algae removal coupled with their quirky looks and habits, they are glorious additions to your aquatic family.