Halting algae growth on tank walls

[Kris P Bacon]

So I set up a 29 gallon, it is in a large window little choice as it is a small room. Though it does not get direct sun, algae growth is happening. Is there any way to halt or slow it without putting a backing on the tank? As I really like the sun light in the room?

I guess, blocking sunlight is the only way? If so, I think a mirror behind the tank would be neat.

 

[celebrist]

Consumers for the algae
What is your stock

 

[Itsadeepbluesea]

Get something that eats the algae, and then try to limit nutrients as much as possible.

 

[tlindsey]

Bristlenose and plants.

 

[Kris P Bacon]

Consumers for the algae
What is your stock

Sail fin mollies, mosquito fish and I think, 3 fathead minnows (they readily take fish based flakes, never observed eating algae. And 12 small shrimp.

 

[Kris P Bacon]

Get something that eats the algae, and then try to limit nutrients as much as possible.

How so? Frequent water changes and vacuuming? Tank is about one month old. I don't have a test kit, but the water stays clear. Just vacummed the first time, I was amazed at the amount of detritus in my river gravel. I have taken lots of gravel out, to make vacuuming easy to remove all the crud, possible.

 

[skjl47]

Is there any way to halt or slow it without putting a backing on the tank?

Hello; Not likely. With natural light the algae will come.

I guess, blocking sunlight is the only way?

Hello; Take this member's advice, it makes sense.

Hello; I have never had much luck with finding something to eat algae. Snails do fair but will not get it all. Not found a fish that does much of a job.
A manual scraper works.

 

[celebrist]

UV light and snails

 

[Itsadeepbluesea]

How so? Frequent water changes and vacuuming? Tank is about one month old. I don't have a test kit, but the water stays clear. Just vacummed the first time, I was amazed at the amount of detritus in my river gravel. I have taken lots of gravel out, to make vacuuming easy to remove all the crud, possible.

As you said water changes, vacuum gravel, make sure you watch how much you feed, and if you have a sponge in the filter make sure to clean it out on a regular basis (they collect a lot).

 

[Kris P Bacon]

I tried sticking my arm in, with a piece of cotton shirt. A new dish scrubber (never seen soap) works much better. These long air stones, help to retard, growth.