Larger fish that eat BBA?

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Jack Dempsey
MFK Member
Feb 9, 2013
361
3
33
Marietta, Ohio
Does anyone know of any larger fish that eat BBA? I have quite a bit starting to grow in my planted 220 but I also have larger fish like polypterus and a large datnoid that makes keeping SAEs impossible even at their max size. Does anyone know if there are ANY large fish that will help keep BBA under control?
 
Unfortunately, no. BBA is ignored by just about every species. Even with SAE's, they won't completely rid a tank of BBA. They simply keep it in check by munching on it from time to time.

You may have to start spot treating with Excel, or increase Co2 (if you're running it).

To some degree, small amounts of BBA are common in most planted tanks. When it gets out of control, it usually indicates there's a major imbalance. In my own tank, I keep BBA in check by using Excel and keeping Co2 levels at 30+ppm. I also clip/remove any leaves that are affected. Best of luck!
 
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I also recommend using purigen in your filter. I've found that it helps kill off BBA by removing excess organic nutrients that the BBA utilizes but the plants don't. I've found that in a planted tank fed with lots of meaty foods and with a lot of fish (especially larger fish) that the organics that the plants can't use are abundant and easily fuel BBA growth. The purigen helps out a ton and its what I've been using since I've been in a very similar boat for years now.
 
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