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How to keep plants clean
Posted: Wed Jun 11, 2025 7:34 am
by Fenririx
My Anubias are getting covered in algae, and it's driving me nuts. I've got a 20 gallon tank with moderate lighting, CO2 injection, and a canister filter. What's the best way to keep them clean without harming the plants or my fish?
Re: How to keep plants clean
Posted: Wed Jun 11, 2025 8:55 am
by ribstone
Algae on Anubias is a common issue, especially with moderate lighting. I'd recommend reducing your light duration to 6-8 hours a day and adding some Amano shrimp or Nerite snails. They're great at cleaning up without messing with the plants. Also, how often are you doing water changes?
Re: How to keep plants clean
Posted: Wed Jun 11, 2025 9:28 am
by kindfolk
ribstone wrote: ↑Wed Jun 11, 2025 8:55 am
Algae on Anubias is a common issue, especially with moderate lighting. I'd recommend reducing your light duration to 6-8 hours a day and adding some Amano shrimp or Nerite snails. They're great at cleaning up without messing with the plants. Also, how often are you doing water changes?
I agree with ribstone. Amano shrimp are fantastic for this. I've also found that dosing Excel or similar liquid carbon can help control algae without harming the plants. Just be careful with the dosage.
Re: How to keep plants clean
Posted: Wed Jun 11, 2025 9:36 am
by murse
I've had success with a toothbrush for spot cleaning. Gently scrub the leaves during water changes. It's tedious but effective. Also, make sure your filter flow isn't too weak, as stagnant water can encourage algae growth.
Re: How to keep plants clean
Posted: Wed Jun 11, 2025 11:14 am
by gildfish
Dude, algae is the worst. I had the same issue with my Java Fern. I added a bunch of Otocinclus and they went to town on it. Now my tank's chill and clean. Maybe give those a shot?
Re: How to keep plants clean
Posted: Wed Jun 11, 2025 11:47 am
by briarley
I've heard floating plants can help by shading the Anubias and competing with algae for nutrients. Maybe try some Frogbit or Water Lettuce? They're easy to manage and look pretty cool too.
Re: How to keep plants clean
Posted: Fri Jun 13, 2025 3:15 am
by radface
Yo, I'm kinda new to this but my buddy told me to cut back on feeding. Said excess food makes algae go crazy. I did that and it helped a ton. Maybe check how much you're feeding?
Re: How to keep plants clean
Posted: Fri Jun 13, 2025 4:46 am
by ocean4
radface wrote: ↑Fri Jun 13, 2025 3:15 am
Yo, I'm kinda new to this but my buddy told me to cut back on feeding. Said excess food makes algae go crazy. I did that and it helped a ton. Maybe check how much you're feeding?
That's solid advice. Overfeeding is a big culprit. I also recommend testing your water params. High nitrates can fuel algae growth. Keep 'em in check with regular water changes.
Re: How to keep plants clean
Posted: Fri Jun 13, 2025 6:03 am
by Fenririx
Thanks for all the suggestions, everyone. I'll try reducing the light and adding some Amano shrimp first. Appreciate the help!
Re: How to keep plants clean
Posted: Fri Jun 13, 2025 6:33 am
by ribstone
Let us know how it goes! Also, if you're dosing ferts, make sure you're not overdoing it. Algae loves excess nutrients.