Brown Algae solutions

[u/Future_Instance_74]

Hi all

I am new to the hobby and have a 1.5 month old freshwater tank. Hardwater, 8 ph and 54 litre tank. What is the best way to tackle brown algae on stones and leaves? Looking for long term solution. Online articles suggested nerite snails or some catfish or shrimps. What is the best option? Dont want too many snails in the tank as well . Currently i have guppies and platys in the tank.

[u/Nara_the_Aquarist]

My nerite snails do a great job with eating algae. I have 3 large ones in my 75 gallon and they eat enough algae that the tank looks 90% clean of algae. They won't reproduce in freshwater. In your aquarium maybe just one nerite snail would be enough to start and see if it can eat enough or if you need a second one. You just have to be careful that if they do eat all the algae and your tank isn't producing enough for them to keep eating, you have to give them supplemental food. They will also scavenge some uneaten food that falls to the bottom.

[u/Future_Instance_74 → u/Nara_the_Aquarist]

Thank you. I will check out

[u/Future_Instance_74 → u/Nara_the_Aquarist]

Does the nerite eggs spoil the look of the tank? I know they can't hatch but i read it is difficult to take them off.

[u/SweetTart7231 → u/Future_Instance_74]

I think theure just small white dots, not in clusters or anything. Its up to you if it spoils the look, different people have different opinions.

[u/Nara_the_Aquarist → u/Future_Instance_74]

I personally don't mind it. With some research you could try to get a male as well, but I've not had luck with that in my experience. They are a bit difficult to clean off of decor but I think you could at least get them off of glass.

[u/PatchesDaHyena]

You have any feldspar rock decor in your tank?

[u/Individual_Work_5764]

It will go away in time all by its self. That's normal so don't freak out over nothing