anyone else struggle with algae?

[folkyd]

My 20 gallon tank has been overrun with green algae lately. I've tried reducing light to 6 hours a day, but it's still spreading. Anyone got tips that actually work?

[gett246]

Algae's a pain, but you gotta tackle it from multiple angles. What's your nitrate level? High nitrates feed algae like crazy. Also, what kind of filter are you running? A good canister filter with proper flow helps. I'd recommend adding some floating plants like Frogbit to outcompete the algae for nutrients.

[floraz]

I had the same issue last month. My tank's only 10 gallons, so it got bad fast. I cut the light to 4 hours and added a few Nerite snails. They've been munching on the algae nonstop. Maybe try that?

[kento4]

My algae problem went away when I started doing more water changes. I do 20% twice a week now. Seems to help.

[solon]

Algae's just nature's way of saying your tank's too clean, right? Kidding. But seriously, it's a vibe. I kinda like the look of some algae, gives it a natural feel.

[folkyd]

Algae's a pain, but you gotta tackle it from multiple angles. What's your nitrate level? High nitrates feed algae like crazy. Also, what kind of filter are you running? A good canister filter with proper flow helps. I'd recommend adding some floating plants like Frogbit to outcompete the algae for nutrients.

Nitrates are around 20 ppm, which I know is high. I'm using a HOB filter, but maybe it's time to upgrade. Thanks for the Frogbit tip, gonna order some today.

[gett246]

20 ppm nitrates will definitely feed algae. Try to get it down to 10 ppm or lower. More water changes, like kento4 said, and maybe cut back on feeding if you're overdoing it. Also, if you're using liquid ferts, dial those back too. Algae loves excess nutrients.

[floraz]

Algae's just nature's way of saying your tank's too clean, right? Kidding. But seriously, it's a vibe. I kinda like the look of some algae, gives it a natural feel.

I get what you're saying, but green algae on the glass is a no for me. It blocks the view of my fish!

[kento4]

If you're gonna add snails, just be careful. Some species reproduce like crazy. Nerites are safe though, they won't overpopulate.

[solon]

True, floraz, the glass algae is a buzzkill. I scrape mine off every week. It's like a chore, but gotta do it.