Purpleish algae

[albash]

I have purpleish algae around the glass. Just wonder if this algae shows any symptoms of disease in the tank?

[fishmosy]

I'm uncertain of what you mean by disease? Do you mean that algae is a sign that the tank is sick or bad?

If so, algae is not necessarily a bad thing in shrimp aquariums because shrimp feed on it. However if the algae is overgrowing your plants and mosses, this may indicate that the nitrogen (ammonia, nitrite or nitrate) levels are high in your tank because algae need this to flourish. You may need to test your water parameters and take action such as larger water changes and reduced feeding if your tests indicate there is a problem.

With regards to purple algae specifically, if the algae grows in little clumps, it could be black brush or black beard algae. This is particularly annoying in shrimp tanks because this is one of the few algae that all shrimp dont eat. It also indicates that you may need to check your water parameters.

A picture of the algae on your glass may help us to identify it and advise on how to deal with it.

[jayc]

http://shrimpkeepersforum.com/forum/index.php/topic/7705-treating-algae-infected-plants-without-killing-the-plant/

[albash]

 

Hi Jayc,

 

Thanks for the info.

I have attached the pict - sorry pict isn't that great.

How do I reduce nitrogen output? Would putting more moss and plant help?

[countryboy12484]

purple1.jpg

Hi Jayc,

Thanks for the info.

I have attached the pict - sorry pict isn't that great.

How do I reduce nitrogen output? Would putting more moss and plant help?

floating plants will help and a good water change schedule

[fishmosy]

That just looks like biofilm, probably made up of mostly diatoms. I'd suggest leaving it (if its not on the front pane of glass) as your shrimp will feed from it, but never eat it completely.

If you want it gone, I'd suggest an algae magnet from one of our sponsors.

I wouldn't worry about changing your water parameters at this stage. This kind of algae is usually a sign that things are OK.