How to Get Rid of Algae on the Top of the Tank

Algae is present in every fish tank, it accumulates rapidly due the amount of light it receives and the amount of fish waste in the water. While small amounts of algae will not harm your fish, you should take care that the tank does not become overrun. However, it is a fine balance since algae is beneficial to keeping the tank balanced. Fish release ammonia into the water and algae is a natural neutralizer, so take care not to remove too much. The algae should be cleaned from your aquarium every week. Depending upon the size of your aquarium, this can be done in under an hour.

Things You'll Need

  • New plastic gloves
  • Elastic bands
  • Clean algae scouring pad
  • Razor blade
  • Large pitcher or cup
  • Hand towel
  • Bucket
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Instructions

    • 1

      Gather all materials needed. Rinse the outside of your plastic gloves in warm water to remove any residue or debris, since these gloves will be submerged into the fish tank.

    • 2

      Place the gloves on your hands, securing the tops with elastic bands so that the water does not flood once your arms are submerged. If there is a thin film of algae on the sides of the tank, you can begin with a razor. If the algae is thicker, start by scrubbing it away with the scouring sponge specifically made for algae removal; you can buy these at most pet stores.

      During this process you may leave the fish in the tank if you can maneuver around them. You will want to remove all visible algae from the sides of the tank. Leaving algae in the rocks at the bottom will be sufficient to maintain the chemistry of the tank.

    • 3

      Empty 30 percent of the water from the aquarium using a large pitcher or cup. If your aquarium is not near a sink, pour the water into a bucket. Once the bucket is full, dump it into your bathtub while running hot water. Algae will still be floating in the aquarium water even after 30 percent has been emptied; this is OK.

    • 4

      Rinse the bucket and fill it again with clean water. Place a thermometer in the bucket to measure the water temperature. You will want it to be as close to the tank 's setting as possible before refilling the tank. If you have a cold water aquarium, ideally this would be set to 68 degrees F, in a warm water aquarium the temperatures should fall between 78 and 80 degrees F. Once water has reached the appropriate temperature, slowly pour the water into the tank.