How Does Algae Indicate Problems in Water?

Algae growth not only looks bad, but it can also be an indicator of other problems in your aquarium. Fish overfeeding, poor water movement, exhausted filters and issues with the water you're using are all problems that can be pointed out with excess algae. All of these issues are easily solved, and once they are, your tank should be algae-free again.

  1. Overfeeding

    • If you begin to see algae in your tank, it may be because you're feeding the fish too much. Any food not eaten by fish breaks down in the water and releases algae-fueling nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphate compounds. Avoid this problem by regulating how much food your fish receive. The animals should consume all of the food within a few minutes from when it enters the water.

    Water Movement

    • Excess algae in an aquarium can be a sign that you have poor water flow. Water flow is essential to a healthy aquarium because it keeps waste from settling and aerates the tank. When waters aren't moving enough, pockets of waste and excess nutrients can build. These become feeding grounds for algae. Additionally, a tank that's not properly aerated with a strong water flow will build carbon dioxide, which also encourages algae growth. Improve your aquarium's water flow with a filter or power head that will continuously move the water around the tank.

    Tap Water

    • Most water treatment facilities around the country condition water before it reaches the faucet for human consumption. While the water is made safer for humans, these extra chemicals and nutrients left in can be harmful to an aquarium. This problem can often be indicated with algae growth because it feeds on the fluoride, iodine, potassium, chlorine and other excess nutrients that might be added to your aquarium through tap water. Use a water test kit, which you can find at most pet stores, to see if you have any of these chemicals in your water, or call the water treatment facility to ask what's been added. If there are unwanted additions, use a specialized filter to get them out.

    Exhausted Filter Media

    • An aquarium's filter helps control excess nutrients and chemicals in the water, among other things. It operates through filter media, such as carbon and fiber pads. All filter media eventually becomes exhausted and stops being able to filter, which will cause an algae outbreak. This will not only halt your aquarium's filtration, but it might also leech other harmful waste into the waters. Check with your filter media's manufacturer to see how often it should be changed.