Question
QUESTION: Hi Guys,

Can I use this to control algae in my 20 gallon Aldrovanda tub ?
Or do you have some recommendations ?


Thanks, Jake





http://www.petsmart.com/product/index.jsp?productId=10884130

ANSWER: Any chemicals that will kill algae will kill your Aldrovanda, so I highly recommend avoiding this and other anti-algae chemicals.

Instead, go to your local garden center and purchase barley straw.  (You can also do an online search for it.)  The straw harbors microorganisms that feast on algae, but will leave other plants alone.  We've used it in our Sarracenia pools, and it definitely helps control algae.

Another trick is to find a natural pond or stream.  Scoop up some of the muck at the bottom and add a cup of it to your tub.  Microorganisms in the muck will also feast on algae.  I've done this to our Aldrovanda tank, and the algae cleared up with a week!

Good growing!
Jacob Farin

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: How much barley straw should I put in my 20 gallon tub ?
Will it sink to the bottom and do I have to take it out at some point ?

Thanks for answering all of my questions !

Jake

Answer
When you purchase the barley straw, the instructions will tell you how much to use.  In general, the barley straw is already packaged in such a way that you simply throw the bag into your pond or such.  The package will tell you the size limit for the amount of straw they give you.  You can then adjust the size accordingly for your tank.  The straw should remain bundled as it will float on the water.  When it sinks, it's time to get a fresh batch.  Do an internet search for barley straw and algae.  You'll see lots of products and different setups for very large ponds of several acres to the size of your home fountain.  This will give you an idea of what you might need to do to retrofit the product for your particular tub.  The manufacturer will also give you instructions on how to use their product.