Buy Aquarium Algae

Algae is algae, right? Actually, algae in an aquarium can be the good kind, providing food, shelter and bad algae prevention. Average people assume that all algae is the bad and ugly kind. It's unsightly, killing an aquarium's delicate balance. This pesky algae takes a lot of energy to remove. It has the ability to take over and ruin the health of fish and other wildlife.

Aquariums can benefit from the introduction of macro-algae, the good kind, to stop the bad kind from taking over. Fortunately for aquarium owners, macro algae can be purchased and easily introduced. It is easy to maintain and much easier than the constant cleaning required to reduce the bad algae.

Why Buy Algae When It Grows Itself?
Macro-algae are different than pest algae. Macro algae provide bio-filtering, actually helping to balance the water just as these algae would do in the wild. These friendly algae eat up the same nutrients and wastes that the bad algae feed on. They can draw oxygen from the carbon dioxide in the water.

Furthermore, macro algae, unlike their pesky kin, are attractive to aquarium owners. Many species of fish can use these algae to hide from predators. Others may munch on them, adding nutrients to their diet.

Before You Buy
Before introducing a macro-algae to your tank, make sure it will get enough light. Generally it needs a twelve-hour day with a 2-4 watt bulb. If you see green algae or other outbreaks of algae that is a good time to introduce the macro-algae you have chosen. If your tank is already experiencing trouble with pesky algae, macro algae can restore balance.

Choices Abound
There are numerous choices. Most are in the division cholorphyta (green) type of algae. Ask for something that your aquarium residents like to eat. Also, find out if the algae will provide cover for your smaller, shyer aquarium life.

Simple
The introduction of these algae is simpler than planting live plants or even introducing a new fish. The algae comes in living rocks which can be placed in the aquarium. These 'rocks' will spread the algae into the

Maintenance
Again, light must be kept at the same 12-hour level. The algae will grow on its own and begin doing its work right away. You will probably notice a change as the good algae cleans up the water and drives out the bad algae by taking away space.