Those who own an aquarium know the problem well – algae. They occur in different forms any may affect the biological equilibrium. The harmonic overall appearance of the underwater world is sometimes also severely affected. Co-inhabitants such as catfish, snails and shrimps therefore provide useful support.
For instance, the so-called Loricariids, especially Otocinclus and related genera, sometimes talked about as ‘window cleaners’, use their downwards directed mouths to rasp algae growth off the plants, the aquarium glass or on the bottom ground.
Important: Some catfish even do not spare plant leaves. The different species should therefore be watched closely. The Otocinclus spp. may be generally smaller, but usually the feed exclusively on algae.
Snails are even more effective. Horned snails (Clithon spp.), for instance, feed on algae on plants and decoration object. Trumpet snails work their way through the bottom ground, which again has positive effects on the bottom flora and fauna. Please note: Suitable conditions provided, they can multiply very rapidly, which threatens the biological equilibrium in the aquarium.
The Japanese Amano shrimps undoubtedly are among the most popular algae eaters. They thoroughly remove thread algae and also graze off the plants.
Catfish, snails and shrimps thus are a good basis for combating algae in an aquarium. Those who do not have shrimps and snails in their aquarium may also use sera algovec*. It provides convenient algae growth control. Important: Never forget that every algae problem has its cause – and this needs to be researched.
* Use biocides safely. Always read the label an product information before use.