green algae

[skiarv]

My tank is covered with green algae and i was wondering what type of fish would keep it under control. I was thinking maybe a species of surgeon fish would do the job.

 

[mr_X]

it depends on what kind of green algae it is. tangs will eat alot of algae, but not all. what size tank is it? tangs also get big and are not suitable for smaller tanks.
how long has the tank been up and running?
what is in the tank so far?

 

[snapper1]

My Purple Tang is always eating the Green Algae but sadly it is never enough.

 

[skiarv]

My tank is nearly 3 years old and about 400 Litres if that gives you an idea how big it is. Ive got 2 longfin bannerfish and two pineapple fish at the moment.

 

[mr_X]

i think you would be ok with a tang/surgeonfish. also, a bunch of snails would help too.
what kind of algae is it? is it strands of long, green hair, or is it shorter?
there is a reason why this algae has appeared after 4 years. excessive feeding, an abundance of phosphate/nitrate, and old bulbs can all contribute to algae growth.
surgeonfish or not, you can correct this algae issue if you figure out what brought it on.
can you test the water?

 

[skiarv]

Yes i have 3 flourescent lights and they are as old as the tank.
Would the algae clear up if i put new lights in?
It is green and has long strands.
Ive never tested the water before so i dont know how.

 

[mr_X]

you really should go out and purchase a good quality test kit.
meanwhile, can you take a sample to your lfs and have them test it?
sure, it's possible that those old bulbs might be contributing to the algae.
what kind of water are you using for your water changes? how often are you doing them?

 

[skiarv]

I get my water from the ocean which is what the other aquarists do in my town. About once a month we do a water change. What kind of test kit and how much?

 

[mr_X]

well.."salifert" makes fairly accurate test kits.
you want to test for nitrate, and phosphate for starters....but you should always be sure you are free of ammonia, and nitrite as well (these are toxic to your inhabitants)
i was under the impression that pulling seawater from the shorelines wasn't good, due to the fact that contaminants tend to accumilate at the shore.
and a once a month waterchange might be good for some people, but not others. it would depend on your bio load.