The Grass Doctor

Algae help in controlling ammonia in a tank?

i just came across this: "algae (GW form) will flourish off of the ammonia/ammonium and phosphate, remembering that algae can consume phosphate easier than plants because of their thin cell walls, the algae uses up the ammonia/ammonium and phosphate, but it doesn't go away...because algae can quickly switch which nutrient it scavenges...it moves to nitrates. " source: http://www.aquahobby.com/articles/e_freshwater_algae.php Is it possible to keep algae along with vegetation in a tank to check levels of ammonia and other "toxins" which are other wise harmful to the fish. i have a common pleco and im sure that along with proper nutrient and light control i can check the amount of algae i need in the tank. I have already collected a sample of green algae from my garden and added it to a seperate bowl of water along with phosphate fertilizers and a little urea to grow it quick(few hours to a day maybe). i intend on transfering the algae...little by little to the main tank(ensuring that no water containning the urea,fertilizer,etc comes along) to the main tank.The algae looks fine and green and mossy so far. however i want to be sure it is not toxic and wont kill my fish. cna anyone please advice with regard to the above.

Public Comments

1. Algae will grow in your tank on it's own given time. Ammonia is best controlled by not over feeding the fish. I don't think I would risk my tank on some algae from the garden.