Algae farm

[Undawada]

I want to grow some algae for my otos, was thinking of putting a pop bottle full of water in a window with an overdose of nitrate rich plant fertilizer and dechlor.

Then I'll scrape some algae off or filter some out and drop it in the tank (thats my theory anyway)

I think this will work, but do you think it's neccessary? Will I cause excessive algae growth in my tank?

 

[Griz]

I think it's a great idea. Somewhere I saw an article that described growing algae on rocks or wood and then introducing it into the tank. I would recommend doing it that way, using a rock or something. Keeps it somewhat contained and you can better judge how the fish like it. Start with just a small bit and see how it goes. I'm sure your otos will appreciate it!

 

[Undawada]

Great idea! I think I might use a rock instead...

Probably 2, so when one is being "eaten" I can be growing algae on the other.

 

[RYO]

why not use an algae tab or just supliment there diet with veg, adding algae to a tank sounds like a sure fire way to trouble (imho)

 

[emo]

why not use an algae tab or just supliment there diet with veg, adding algae to a tank sounds like a sure fire way to trouble (imho)

I think otos need live algae, rather than an algae tab.

Go with growing it on a few stones!

 

[Sorrell]

Algae mainly comes from phosphate in tap water and fish foods. So maybe add some fish food to break down in your algae growth tank?

 

[jacblades]

i have often thought about this too.

i would love to culture beard algae on some rocks or driftwood. call me crazy but i think its so pretty!

i bought this children s book from the 50s about algae (i know-what kid would want to read about algae?) and it was saying that in the year 2000, we would all be culturing algae on our flat rooftops for food...

just thought that was funny!

 

[fufanu360]

good one jacblades, i guess their idea of ''good reading'' in the 50's was different

 

[Undawada]

why not use an algae tab or just supliment there diet with veg, adding algae to a tank sounds like a sure fire way to trouble (imho)

I've never seen my otos sucking on an algae tab, although my Emerald Catfish go bonkers for them. I have no idea why, but I figure they might like living slimy algae better?

we would all be culturing algae on our flat rooftops for food...

Ummm....
What kind of wine would you serve?

Algae mainly comes from phosphate in tap water and fish foods. So maybe add some fish food to break down in your algae growth tank?

That might be an idea... I'm concerned about moving rocks or wood from a polluted source to my community though... I wonder if you can buy phosphates as plant food?

 

[Yenko]

Alage eaters are best kept hungry; if you give them food they will likely just go for that rather than the low levels of alage in the rest of the tank. My dad had it happen to some False SAE's; within 24 hours of tasting flakefood they never ate alage again.

 

[Dubby]

What kind of wine would you serve? 

made from Dandelions? Go organic mate