How to get rid of algae in a discus tank?

[godprint]

what fauna can we use to control algae? currently have 20 discus in a 4ft tank...

if possible, please advice on specific names (reason: i very bad at technical names, i prefer those names that LFS uncle will know, so easier for me to purchase)

thanks!!

[illumnae]

try getting ancistrus sp. bristlenose plecos. if you look around in the Aquatalk subforum, you should find a thread specifying where to find these plecos. they come highly recommended by many american discus hobbyists as they adapt well to discus temperatures and have no known record of attacking discus for the slime coating.

otos are also a popular choice, but be warned that it's a 50-50 chance that the otos will attack your discus and suck on their sides to eat on the slime coating of the discus. my personal experience is very good, but many hobbyists have reported attacks to make it a concern

finally, you could try sturisoma sp. whiptail catfish, commonly known in LFS as helicopter catfish. there has only been a few reports of them attacking discus...definitely less than otos, but it may be a potential consideration for you. furthermore, they're pricier than the other 2 options mentioned above, but are also arguably cuter in a planted tank due to their unique look and long flowing tail extensions. when buying these, try to avoid buying small juveniles as these tend to be very delicate and die easily. better to invest abit more money to buy adult specimens that are more likely to survive

hope this helps

[Quixotic]

Firstly, there is something that needs to be clarified first. What exactly is the algae in the tank? Specific faunas will only help clear specific algae. So without knowing what algae is it, then you could be getting the wrong fauna.

Secondly, is your discus tank a planted tank, with CO2 injection?