Brown Spots On Glass In Aquarium
Having an aquarium can be very relaxing and enjoyable. However, as an aquarium owner, you may notice brown spots on the glass of your tank. These brown spots can be unsightly and may make your aquarium look dirty. In this article, we will discuss what causes brown spots on glass in an aquarium and how to get rid of them.
What Causes Brown Spots On Glass In Aquarium?
The brown spots on glass in an aquarium are usually caused by diatoms. Diatoms are a type of algae that have a brown coloration. They are microscopic and can grow on the surfaces of your aquarium, including the glass. Diatoms thrive in a nutrient-rich environment, which is why they are often found in newly established aquariums. They can also appear in established aquariums if there is a sudden change in the water chemistry or if the aquarium is not properly maintained.
How To Get Rid Of Brown Spots On Glass In Aquarium?
Getting rid of brown spots on glass in an aquarium can be a bit challenging, but it is not impossible. Here are some ways you can get rid of them:
1. Manual Removal
One of the easiest ways to get rid of brown spots on glass in an aquarium is by manually removing them. You can use a scraper or an algae magnet to remove them. Scrape the glass gently to prevent any damage. You can also use a toothbrush to scrub the glass. This will help to remove the diatoms and prevent them from coming back.
2. Water Changes
Another way to get rid of brown spots on glass in an aquarium is by doing regular water changes. Diatoms thrive in a nutrient-rich environment, so reducing the nutrients in the water can help to prevent them from growing. Change 10-20% of the water every week to keep the water chemistry stable.
3. Algaecides
If manual removal and water changes don't work, you can use algaecides. Algaecides are chemicals that are designed to kill algae. Make sure to follow the instructions carefully when using algaecides. Remove any fish from the tank before using them, and make sure to do a water change after using them.
Preventing Brown Spots On Glass In Aquarium
The best way to deal with brown spots on glass in an aquarium is by preventing them from growing in the first place. Here are some ways you can prevent them:
1. Proper Maintenance
Proper maintenance is key to preventing brown spots on glass in an aquarium. Make sure to do regular water changes, clean the filter, and remove any uneaten food or debris from the tank. This will help to reduce the nutrients in the water and prevent diatoms from growing.
2. Use RO Water
RO water is purified water that has had all the impurities removed. Using RO water in your aquarium can help to prevent brown spots from growing. This is because RO water has very low nutrient levels, which makes it difficult for diatoms to grow.
3. Reduce Light Exposure
Diatoms thrive in light, so reducing the amount of light exposure can help to prevent them from growing. Make sure to turn off the lights in your aquarium for at least 8 hours a day. You can also use a timer to ensure that the lights are turned off at the same time every day.
Conclusion
Brown spots on glass in an aquarium can be unsightly, but they are not harmful to your fish. They are usually caused by diatoms, which are a type of algae. Removing diatoms can be challenging, but it is not impossible. Manual removal, water changes, and algaecides can help to get rid of them. Preventing brown spots on glass in an aquarium is the best way to deal with them. Proper maintenance, using RO water, and reducing light exposure can help to prevent diatoms from growing.
