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Thread: Crystal Clear Tank

  1. #1
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    Crystal Clear Tank

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    Just wondering, how do you maintain a crystal clear tank? My nano tank was superbly clear when I add water. After a few days it's still clear but not like before. I am trying to carpet MC, with a few floating plants and 2 ottos. Also how do you guys clear the oily film that forms on top of the water?

  2. #2
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    Re: Crystal Clear Tank

    If you are noticing that the water is abit cloudy or hazy, then it could be due to bacteria bloom (which is common in new tank setups that are still cycling), it should clear up on its own after a short time.

    If the water has a greenish tint, then its due to green water algae, also quite common in new tanks as the free floating algae feed and over multiply on the excess nutrients and light. Reducing light, adding more fast growing plants and doing more frequent water changes can flush out the excess nutrients and help to clear up the algae.

    If the water seems to be abit yellowish or brownish (ie. light tea color), then its tannins released from either driftwood or soil in the tank. It'll gradually clear up over time as you do regular water changes.

    You might also look at using an algae scraper/razor or sponge to clean the tank glass too, quite often a layer of algae grows in the tank glass (ie. residual algae film thats not completely consumed by the algae eaters) and that makes the tank look less clear.

    As for the oil film at the water surface, it's usually caused by oil residue released from organic matter (ie. soil, wood, food, waste, rotting plant material etc). You can try scooping out the surface film periodically, or increase surface agitation to break it apart, or do more water changes to reduce the level of dissolved organics in the water.

    Alternatively, you could also install a surface skimmer (ie. Eheim Skim 350 or Ocean Free Surf Clear) which will help to draw in and soak up the oil film.
    :: Urban Aquaria ::
    www.urbanaquaria.com

  3. #3
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    Re: Crystal Clear Tank

    Thanks UA!

  4. #4
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    Re: Crystal Clear Tank

    Great advice UA, found this very useful thanks!

  5. #5

    Re: Crystal Clear Tank

    Though harmless, I take oily film (bio film) as a sign that I'm overfeeding. Overfeeding also encourages algae growth. For a new tank it might take a while to improve clarity. Purigen has been known to be a good water polisher, you could try that too.

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