How Much Peroxide for the Algae in Turtle Water?

Algae refers to a diverse array of organisms that are usually unicellular eukaryotic protozoans. Several forms of algae can alter an aquarium's pH, cloud the water and alter oxygen levels, making water less safe for turtles. Water turtle tanks are especially susceptible to algae overgrowth because of turtles' eating and basking habits. A simple hydrogen peroxide solution effectively treats several varieties of algae infestation.

Hydrogen Peroxide Concentration
- Most hydrogen peroxide is sold in concentrations of 3 percent, which is the ideal concentration to use with fish. If you purchase 6 or 9 percent solutions, you must appropriately alter the recommended dosing. Six percent solution requires half the normal dose while 9 percent solution requires a third of the normal dose.
Hydrogen Peroxide Dosing
- Use 1 ml hydrogen peroxide for every 8 gallons of water in the tank. For example, if you have a 24 gallon tank, treat with 3 ml of peroxide. This dosage is safe for both turtles and fish, so if you keep feeder fish in your turtle tank, they won't be affected by the peroxide. Never treat more than once in a 48 hour period.
Applying Hydrogen Peroxide
- You can apply hydrogen peroxide directly to the algae or simply pour it in the tank. If the algae is concentrated in a single location, use an eyedropper to apply the peroxide to that area. If algae is distributed throughout the tank, however, treat the water itself.
Preventing Algae
- You may have to treat the algae several times for it to completely go away. If you do not see some improvement in the algae within a day after the first treatment, your tank is afflicted with a variety of algae that cannot be destroyed by hydrogen peroxide.
  
  To prevent future algae overgrowth, keep the lights on for 12 hours a day. Algae frequently grows in aquariums that have too much light. Check the pH levels in your tank, because both high and low pH can make an aquarium susceptible to certain varieties of algae.