Fish Tank Algae Cleaning

Posted by admin on Wednesday, November 29, 2006 · Leave a Comment

fish tank algae cleaning
How do you correctly change water in a freshwater fish tank with algae?

I have now killed two beta fish after changing the water 1/2 way after algae growth (it’s a 3 gallon tank with a filter). Both time it resulted in the fishes death within a week after the water change. What is the correct way to clean a freshwater fish tank that has algae growth? I know not to change all the water because of the chemicals and pH level must remain in the tank. I usually would change out the filter every month, add water after water loss from perspiration, change only 1/2 of the water in the tank every month as well as rinse out the tank with water only before replacing old water. I use a chlorine remover for all water changes and I do NOT use soaps or other cleaning chemicals (obviously). I really need your help. I want to get another fish but not until I know how to make sure it lives for longer than 9 months.

Weekly you should be changing out about 25% of the water, and replacing it with freshly conditioned water of the same temperature.

Most aquariums have some type and level of algae growth. It can mean the tank receives too much light, and/or too much nutrients. Either way, a simple water change should not be affected by algae growth. However, you may want to take measures to reduce the amount of algae you have:
-If the tank is near a window or receives too much natural light you may want to move it to a more shaded location.
-Avoid overfeeding your fish. A betta only needs 2-3 pellets per day and all uneaten food should be removed.
-Test your water weekly. If nitrates are high, it spurs algae growth.

You have a 3 gallon tank with a filter. But what about a heater? Bettas are tropical fish and their temperature needs to be maintained steadily between 78F-82F. In many cases an inappropriate temperature can easily cause fish death.

30 gallon fish tank, with angel fish before cleaning