How to Remove Free Floating Algae

Algae is the green growth that occurs on the inside of your aquarium's glass. A thin layer of algae growth is normal and healthy, but thick layers of growth and green water signal potentially unhealthy overgrowth. Free floating algae are suspended in the water, giving it a greenish tint. Through regular tank maintenance and careful positioning of your tank, you'll keep your fish healthy and your aquarium's visibility crystal clear.

Things You'll Need

  • Scrub brush
  • Fish net
  • Large measuring cup
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Instructions

    • 1

      Remove your tank's lid and scrub away algae growth from the glass. Scrub thoroughly but gently to avoid irritating your fish.

    • 2

      Brush clean your tank's mechanical filtration system, which is responsible for eliminating most free-floating algae. Algae can clog the inlets in the filtration mechanism and render it useless.

    • 3

      Scoop up any large algae blooms with a fish net and dispose of them.

    • 4

      Ladle out 10 to 15 percent of your tank's water with a large measuring cup. Refill your tank to capacity with fresh water.

    • 5

      Position your tank so that it does not receive direct sunlight. Sun exposure increases algae growth dramatically.

    • 6

      Avoid overfeeding your fish or overpopulating your tank. Uneaten food, along with excess fish waste, contributes to the growth of free-floating algae.