Can't stop this particular algae

[b-roll]

Most of the algae in my aquarium is under control with the exception of this one. Could anyone tell me if I either have a phosphate dificiency or an excess? I do not have a test kit, but I have heard that they are inaccurate anyway. WHat do I do?

[|squee|]

You have a defiency in nitrate, most likely your nitrate levels are very very low. You have Blue Green Algae (BGA).

There're a couple of ways to beat this bacteria (it's not an algae despite it's name), one of which involves adding nitrate to your tank, doing a 3-day blackout, and adding nitrate back in after that. Do a search in the forums for more detailed answers, but I expect others will help.

[barmby]

I dont think its BGA. Looks like thick tuff of dust algae combined with spot algae.

[b-roll]

It's not BGA. I have dealt with that before, and this is not the same. It looks like the same type of algae that collects on the side of my glass. It seems to only want to cover the plant leaves.

[valice]

are those plants slow growing? probably is green or spot algae...
think it will be easier to juz cut away those leaves?

[barmby]

TRy Dwarf Bristlenose Pleco.

Take note. Every 2 feet tank only need one. And you can forget about Otocinclus. ONE fella can do is equal to what 10-15 otocinclus to get the job done.

[neon]

TRy Dwarf Bristlenose Pleco.

Take note. Every 2 feet tank only need one. And you can forget about Otocinclus. ONE fella can do is equal to what 10-15 otocinclus to get the job done.

I find oto can only clean tank with the brown diatom very well, but useless on other algae.

Cheers

[b-roll]

I have 4 otos and they don't seem to do a lot. However, if I didin't have those who knows where I would be.

[PeterGwee]

Most of the algae in my aquarium is under control with the exception of this one. Could anyone tell me if I either have a phosphate dificiency or an excess? I do not have a test kit, but I have heard that they are inaccurate anyway. WHat do I do?

Excess is not an issue with phosphate whereas limitation is an issue with all nutrients except for NH4.

Look into the estimative index method by Tom Barr. No more guessing of whether you are running out of nutrients except for CO2 which is almost always the biggest issue with folks in this hobby.

Regards
Peter Gwee

[GaspingGurami]

TRy Dwarf Bristlenose Pleco.

Take note. Every 2 feet tank only need one. And you can forget about Otocinclus. ONE fella can do is equal to what 10-15 otocinclus to get the job done.

Any picture of what one looks like and where can I get one?

[barmby]

Hi Larry, please visit Nature Aquarium @ Balestier. The boss, Mr. Chan can help you.

Sorry, no picture to share.