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Green Algae on Glass
In November, there was a question about the green algae that sometimes forms
on the glass walls of the tank. It is not spot algae, but rather a
uniform "film" over the entire surface. On 23 Nov. 2001, Tom Barr, writing
I'm sure about the same type of algae, said, "It's obviously a fast growth
specialist. It doesn't grow on any plants though. Glass only. In higher
lighted tanks I have seen this one grow back in 2 hours after cleaning!
Amazing."
I have experienced the same problem and the frustration of cleaning it off,
only to have it come back the same day. I did notice that, when I scrape
it, it comes off almost as a powder and rapidly disappears. So, remembering
the effectiveness of a diatomaceous earth filter in removing green water,
algae suspended in water, I tried the following experiment.
I charged my Vortex filter with new diatomaceous earth, started it up, and
then began scraping off the algae film. It wasn't long before I could see a
faint greenish tinge on the filter bag. I did this three days in a row, and
it seemed to me that it came back more slowly each time. Since then, it has
virtually disappeared.
I would be interested in whether anyone else has tried this technique and
what their experience has been. Thanks.
John T. Fitch
E-mail: jtfitch at spamcop_net
Web Site: www.fitchfamily.com/aquarium.html