Goldfish & Algae

Goldfish are popular pets kept in fishbowls and aquariums. Algae has a tendency to grow in these containers, but it is actually a sign of a healthy environment. The green algae film clinging to the tank is a sign of oxygen-rich water that has been exposed to sunlight. Goldfish thrive well in an environment with algae.

  1. Algae in a Fishbowl

    • Algae becomes prominent in a fishbowl when there are not many chemicals used in the water. If the environment is near a lot of sunlight, the algae grows even more. Algae is actually more sensitive than the goldfish, and is a good signal if there is a change in the water. Algae often dies before the goldfish do from problems in the tank. If algae begins to die, something is wrong with the tank environment. Take action before the fish start to die.

    Balance of Algae and Goldfish

    • Goldfish help with the algae buildup in a fishbowl because they like to graze on algae. The algae gives the goldfish many nutrients needed in their diet. Algae in turn feeds off of the excrement of the goldfish, balancing the environment. This balance is sensitive because if there is too much algae, it overwhelms the fishbowl.

    Clean Environment

    • Although a goldfish bowl or a fish tank with a light layer of algae seems dirty, it is in fact much cleaner and healthier than a clear tank filled with chemicals. Algae cleans the water to feed itself, and this helps create a sustainable environment. If there is so much algae that it clumps together and clouds the water, then take action to remove the excess.

    Removing Algae From a Goldfish Environment

    • Remove the clumps of algae with a net, stick or wooden spoon and dispose of it in the backyard or trash. There are also algae cleaning utensils available at pet stores. Refrain from using chemicals to kill the algae because this also has the potential to kill the fish.