How to Grow Algae in a Fish Tank

Aquarium owners generally want to control algae and reduce its growth in their tanks, but at times, algae is actually a desirable plant. You may want to use a mat of algae to provide cover and security for baby fish or shy adult fish living in a community tank with more aggressive species. Getting algae to grow is not hard once you supply the proper growing conditions and materials.

Things You'll Need

  • Rocks
  • Driftwood
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Instructions

    • 1

      Set up your aquarium as you normally would, but do not connect any air stones or other sources of aeration. Algae grows best in still water.

    • 2

      Place the aquarium in a spot getting direct sunlight for several hours each day. The more sunlight hitting the tank, the better the algae will grow.

    • 3

      Add an assortment of flat rocks, driftwood and similar items to provide a growing spot for the algae. Flat rocks are particularly good choices, since their shape allows algae to form a thick mat on their surface.

    • 4

      Watch for algae growth. Remove algae as needed to use it elsewhere. For instance, you might want to scrape a mat of algae off one rock and place it on top of the water in a nursery tank. The algae floats on the surface of the water and gives the newly hatched fry a suitable hiding place and added security.