What Causes White Flaky Stuff in the Fish Tanks?

Maintaining an aquarium requires a bit of effort and attentiveness. Aquarium owners often noticed previously unseen objects in the tank. White flakes or flake-like substances are quite common and can come from a variety of sources and require different solutions. Check carefully to identify the cause before undertaking a solution; too many sudden changes in an aquarium are not normally well-received by the fish.

  1. Calcium deposits

    • In places where hard water is provided by the local water company calcium deposits are the most likely cause. Calcium reacts with household chemicals like vinegar, so do a test. Scoop out some of the flakes and in a bowl add some vinegar. If there are bubbles released, the deposit is of a mineral nature. Never add vinegar directly to the aquarium

      To reduce the problems caused by calcium add aquarium-grade peat. This solution will cause a slight shift in the tint that the water has since tannins will be released into the tank. However, the fish will not be affected by the tannins.

    Planaria

    • If the flakes are of a strand-like nature and are throughout the aquarium, one possibility may be that they are planaria. Planaria only thrive in a tank if there is an abundance of uneaten food. Often, the food is found mixed within the gravel. The danger in allowing them to survive is that they feed on fish eggs. The cure is simple; clean the tank and gravel and reduce the amount of food that the fish are being given.

    Hydras

    • These creatures have a small flat body, but are noted for their tentacles. They pose a threat to tanks because they will eat fish fry if the eggs are small enough. They can however feed on left over foods that the fish don't eat. The solution can be found by using chemical treatments or introducing gouramis or other fish that eat hydra.

    Hair Algae

    • Hair algae is not particularly common in aquariums. But, when it appears, hair algae will grow in small white strands, eventually settling onto plants and other fixed features. If these flakes are hair algae blooms the easiest solution is to add American flag fish or rosy barb, and let the algae be eaten. Otherwise there is a danger that fish will get caught in the algae.