Inducing Algae Growth?

  • We are currently upgrading MFK. thanks! -neo
I'm trying to get algae to grow on the rocks of the Malawi tank I've setup, so that the mbunas (algae grazers) can feed on it - makes for a more natural display....that was the plan anyhow...

I put a piece of lettuce in for them which they picked at, and they did the same with the cucumber slice which I gave them....don't think they took to them as much as my placos used to but ah well!
 
Stu;2298629; said:
Wondering why you would want algae in your tank?? Isn't the idea to have a crystal clear tank without algae everywear?? Just wondering
Click to expand...
Algae is part of the ecosystem. You were talking about green water phenomenon which is a far cry from green algae that grows on rocks. Increased light intensity and excess nutrients often help. If I were you, collect many rocks, place them on a basin of water and put the basin under direct sunlight. Add ferts or fish foods on it as ammonia source. Wait for a few days until algae begins to grow. Alternately use them on your tank for your fish to graze on. That's how I culture algae for my hillstream loaches.;)
 
Ditto lupin... Rocks in a shallow tank/bowl/bucket set outside should grow algae in a few days. Use water from your tank and then you can just switch out rocks from the main tank to the buckets.

I would avoid using ferts. if you don't have plants. I can't imagine adding phos. to my already phos. heavy tap water.
 
Whats diatoms peoplepeople? I've been leaving the light on in the tank for good lengths of time, and I've got quite a lot of 'brown' growing on the rocks, and on the glass. Is this algae? Any good for mbunas to graze on? Not actually seen them picking at the rocks. My aim would be to make this their main source of food, like in the wild, and just supplement/treat them with flake etc...

Any suggestions?
Cheers
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
MonsterFishKeepers.com
Top Bottom