Hey LLykkers, are you, like many aquarium enthusiasts, struggling with the pervasive green algae that seems to take over your fish tank?

Many aquarists have voiced their frustration, saying, "It's like someone poured green paint into the tank—just three days after cleaning, it's covered in algae again!"

Behind this issue lies the truth about ecological imbalance and "nutrient overload" in the aquarium. Today, I'll delve into the reasons behind the rampant growth of green algae and share five effective algae-killing methods and algae prevention secrets to help you say goodbye to the "green hair tank" and restore clear water!

Why Green Algae Grows Rampantly: Excess Nutrients and Strong Light

Green algae reproduces through photosynthesis. If your aquarium receives more than four hours of direct sunlight daily, it's like providing an all-you-can-eat buffet for algae.

At the same time, the nitrates produced from the decomposition of leftover fish food and fish waste act as a "fertilizer" for green algae. Not only does green algae block the view for appreciation, but it also competes with fish for oxygen, severely threatening their survival.

Three Proven Algae-Killing Methods: See Results in Just Three Days

Physical Scraping Method

Simple tools like algae scrapers or old bank cards can be used.

When operating, scrape the tank walls at a 45° angle with the card. For stubborn algae, a little white vinegar can help remove it. However, this method is labor-intensive and only addresses the symptoms, not the root cause. The algae may return in three days.

Biological Predators

Recommended combination: Algae eaters like plecos can consume algae films, while black shrimp and apple snails can continuously eat algae in crevices around the clock. Additionally, golden algae rats can tackle algae on the substrate.

Generally, placing 30 black shrimp in 100 liters of water can be effective, but be mindful of density control to avoid worsening water quality due to their excrement.

UV Sterilizer

The principle is that UV light disrupts the DNA of algae, breaking the reproduction chain. It is recommended to install it inside an external filter canister to avoid direct impact on fish and nitrifying bacteria. After continuous use for 48 hours, the green water in the aquarium can significantly clear up. It is cost-effective, and a small lamp under 50 yuan is sufficient for home use.

Avoid These Pitfalls: They May Make Things Worse

Don't take extreme measures out of impatience!

- Vigorously scrubbing filter media will destroy the nitrification system, causing water quality fluctuations and stimulating algae regrowth.

- Pouring in 84 disinfectant can eliminate algae, but it can also easily poison fish and shrimp, and chemical residues take seven days to degrade.

- Keeping the lights off all day can temporarily suppress green algae, but it will cause aquatic plants to wither, and brown algae may take advantage of the situation.

In the daily process of fishkeeping, it is important to focus not only on the aesthetic appeal but also on the maintenance of water quality and the ecological environment. Feel free to share your algae-killing experiences in the comments section, show before-and-after photos of your aquarium, and discuss the best algae removal solutions for your tank.

Share this with your fellow aquarists to help more people say goodbye to the green, murky aquarium and enjoy the pleasure of clear water in fishkeeping!