Blackbeard algae

[lganderson1313]

I have a 360 gallon freshwater tank with an 80 gallon sump with a large stingray and arowana any thoughts of getting rid of the Blackbeard algae?? I’ve had the lights off do 50% water change weekly. Also have very tiny snails don’t know where the come from. Any help greatly appreciated!!

 

[HUKIT]

I’ve always had good luck with 3% hydrogen peroxide spot treatments. Drain the water so the algae covered plants and decor are no longer water, spray the hydrogen peroxide on the algae, let it sit for 5 minutes, and then refill the tank with water again.

 

[lganderson1313]

I seen that on YouTube, but then people said that the peroxide will harm the stingray?

 

[HUKIT]

I am afraid that I don’t have any experience with rays. I don’t know what you’re dealing with visually but if you’re able to remove the algae covered plants or scape to clean that would be preferable if you’re worried about the rays. I have used hydrogen peroxide in many planted tanks with a few scaleless fish such as clown poached without any issues.

 

[Jexnell]

Embrace it and let it grow. When it has covered everything it's beautiful.

 

[Backfromthedead]

Yeah I always liked mine when it was growing but it seems to sort of run it's course and disappear after awhile in my tanks. It may just be a matter of time and water changes and it goes away on its own.

 

[lganderson1313]

Anyone have any thoughts on getting rid of snails? The are very tiny but they are in my sump. Don’t even know how the got there? Sometimes I see them on the glass. I don’t want them to get out of control! Thank!

 

[Deadeye]

What kind are they? Do they have a conical shell or a rounded one?
Adding a snail eater (loaches, assassin snail, etc.) can help clean them up. You can also put cucumber pieces in and remove as they get covered in snails. Personally I like to keep them in the tank - they are unmatched for tank cleaners.

As for the black bear algae, I’ve had success using scuds (freshwater amphipods) to destroy it. I had to remove decor to put with them for best results. Given the size of the ray and aro, they may not pay any attention to them directly in the tank.

At this point I’ve just learned to live with the BBA - I’ve grown to like it.