Best hair algae eaters reef tank One that preferably would peck at hair algae and would be comfortable with the current inhabitants I have. Those will eat algae in large amounts. 2. Jul 17, 2022 · Four of the best algae eaters, Tuxedo Urchin, Lawnmower Blenny, Yellow Tang, and Hermit Crab, all do something a little different. 3. Oct 24, 2024 · Oct 24, 2024 10 Best Algae-Eating Combos for Every Aquarium Setup 10 Best Algae-Eating Combos for Every Aquarium Setup Algae is one of the most common challenges for aquarium owners, but the right combination of algae eaters can help keep your tank spotless and healthy. These snails are voracious eaters and will happily munch on hair algae, making them a great addition to any reef tank. Emerald Crabs Emerald crabs are great scavengers and can be seen all over the tank picking at rocks. Reduced Chemical Use: Minimizes the need for potentially harmful chemical treatments. Tuxedo Nov 28, 2024 · The best fish that eat hair algae in a reef tank include the Court Jester Goby, Bristletooth Tangs, and Rabbitfish like the Foxface. Aug 6, 2007 · best hair algae eaters? Reef DiscussionJoin Date: Feb 2004 Location: NC Posts: 215 i am going to pick a mollie up on my way home. This is my first tank (up for 3+ months), so Nov 17, 2023 · Green hair algae, also known as GHA, is a long strand of fuzzy algae that grows on the glass or rocks of the aquarium. to/4cXnMWg (paid link) Maintaining a clean and healthy aquarium is essential for the well-being of your Aug 14, 2025 · In this complete aquarium hair algae guide, we’re going to dive deep into what this algae is, why it shows up, and most importantly, the step-by-step, eco-friendly methods to remove it for good. 1. Urchins are an important part of a cleanup crew that will consume hair algae and other forms of algae. Mar 19, 2014 · Ok I got hair algae and yes I know what causes it. Don't expect too much of an algae eating behavior from any fish or snail really. Also every fish or snail can eat some sort of algae. Hair algae aren’t harmful at first when kept under control, but they can become deadly Jun 14, 2024 · Here’re the top algae eaters for different needs Battling hair algae? These herbivores are your best bet We’ll delve deeper into specific fish recommendations in a sec, but for now, let’s just say there are some all-stars when it comes to battling hair algae. Mar 6, 2010 · Peppermints don't each hair algae. Learn about the causes of hair algae, from nutrient imbalances to lighting issues, and discover effective prevention and treatment strategies, including manual removal, chemical options, and beneficial Jul 6, 2020 · Hello, Ive kept marine fish for a decade and throughout that time I’ve chopped and changed and spent thousands on the latest gadget, giving tanks little time to stabilise. Aug 2, 2024 · otos and nerites are the only real algae eaters in this list. And every beginner who is desperate for help is told to get frog bit to shade light and help control their run away algae situation and also to drain out the massive nitrate reading. But where do you turn for aid when your tank is just 3 gallons or smaller? Surely this cuts the possible hair algae eating livestock in half or further! So for future Mar 30, 2022 · Algae eaters, also known as algivores, are aquarium dwellers that feed on algae. So I intend to beef up the crew. Treat saltwater aquarium cyanobacteria, green hair algae, diatoms, & bubble algae. Are you dealing with an algae problem in your tank? Or maybe you’re just looking for a great saltwater fish that will bring some interesting character to the tank AND be functional. Just don't feed other food until the algae is gone or you can just clean in manually haha. They are also very handy at cleaning up and keeping the tank tidy! Dec 30, 2022 · What Are the Best Algae Eaters for My Reef Tank? If you have decided to maintain low and manageable levels of red hair algae, your marine life may appreciate it for their daily snacking needs. Including corals as they are safe for reef tanks. But this stuff does work and will clear up your tank as a bonus. Home aquariums naturally have more nutrients than wild ecosystems, and the slightest change in maintenance can lead to short term algae problems until it is addressed. These filthy algae make your reef tank much messy and ugly. Additionally, certain types of Tangs, like the Yellow Tang, are effective at consuming brown algae. There aren't any surgeonfish compatible with a 45-gallon tank and the additional waste will further compound your hair algae problem. If you want to learn how to get rid of hair algae in your aquarium, this article is for you! Jan 7, 2025 · I have a huge problem with hair algae in my softie tank. If you have a pile of dry rock just starting to grow hair algae, you probably have a decent amount of algae ahead of you. Nov 28, 2018 · Just what the title says. Nov 26, 2020 · What is the best algae eating fish? Foxface or some type of tang? Also, is a scopas or sailfin good algae eaters? What about a kole tang or tomini? Thanks! Jul 7, 2009 · I am having an outbreak of hair algae in my reef tank. It it disturbing almost every coral and my clean up crew is more focused on algae on the glass. i will let you know how it works out. Any Blennys reef safe/ok in that size tank for the time being? Looking for best type of hair algae eater for a 10 gallon. 5 days ago · What is the Best Hair Algae Remover in the Reef Aquarium? The most effective way to remove hair algae in a reef aquarium involves a multi-pronged approach, combining nutrient control, effective manual removal, and, in some cases, careful introduction of biological controls like algae-eating invertebrates. Feb 18, 2020 · It largely also depends on where your tank is at in maturity and how clean everything is. What is the most efficient hair algae eater in your opinion? (I try pulling it off the rocks but it immediately grows back, I even do water Algae has a wide range of habitats and can grow in all bodies of water, including closed and confined ecosystems like saltwater tanks. Corals and fish are doing good except I’m starting to get hair algae growth on the rocks. 5 fluval tank for now so i know tangs would be a good idea but the tank is May 17, 2021 · So, here we will tell you everything that you need to know about hair algae, what it is and how to get rid of it by choosing some of the best clean-up crew that can eat these algae in your reef tank. As with all algae eaters they may like your crop or algae or not. Sep 20, 2012 · Perhaps we have discussed this topic before. Feb 3, 2022 · Algae Eaters Algae eaters, when used in combination, can tackle lots of different algae from the green hair algae and bubble algae that grow on rock to the film algae that also grows on the glass. Of course I will skip the tangs because tangs are not for nano reefs. You can get some Siamese algae eater or flying fox, I did that and my tank is free of algae just in few days. What say ye? Fish, inverts Mar 9, 2021 · Snails tend to be primarily herbivores but some are meat-eaters. Being one of the most common algae types, hair algae are a prevalent nuisance in fish tanks. This is my list. Other good options for hair algae-eating snails include the Bumblebee snail (Engina mendicaria), the Trochus snail (Trochus histrio), and the Astraea snail (Astraea tecta). Not in any particular order. In conclusion, hair algae eaters can be a valuable addition to your saltwater aquarium as they provide a natural and effective solution to algae problems. Please feel free to add more. I would suggest a hair algae pre-mixed crew sized for a 90 gallon tank. Here are the 10 best algae-eating fish for saltwater aquariums Charterhouse Aquatics Dec 6, 2017 · So, I think I need a herbivore to my reef, I'm in a never ending battle of scrubbing rocks and dosing phosphates to keep them in a desired range. Here's a guide to some of the best marine tank cleaners. Crabs, snails, starfish, urchins and sea cucumbers along with utilitarian fish like blennies and tangs are your best defense against nuisance algae. Aug 16, 2019 · This is my 6 month old 20 gallon tank. Nov 30, 2021 · Having an in-tank clean-up crew that continuously focuses on algae removal can be a big help in keeping that algae problem under control. However, selecting the right blenny depends on your specific tank environment and algae type. This guide will walk you through identifying different types of algae, methods for removing and preventing them, and effective algae control solutions like ReefFlux and Jun 7, 2020 · I have a Cobalt CVUE 40 gallon tank. Share Sort by: Best Open comment sort options Best Top New Controversial Old Q&A Add a Comment Enjoying_A_Meal • Dec 23, 2020 · Crabs are not just cool-looking additions to your saltwater aquarium. Any suggestions? Dec 3, 2013 · I don't have personal experience with convict tangs, but they are supposedly very good algae eaters. Dec 6, 2020 · Green hair algae, also known as GHA is an extremely common occurrence in the reef keepers world. Oct 2, 2012 · What reef safe (I do NOT have SPS) fish tend to eat hair algae and are appropriate for a 28 g. It has been up and running over a year now. It affects both fresh and saltwater reef tanks, but the good news is you can get it under control. Oct 14, 2022 · Removing algae by hand or filtration, adjusting the light intensity, reducing phosphate and nitrates, using RO/DI water, maintaining the proper water flow, removing the excess nutrients, and adding natural algae eaters are some of the effective ways to get rid of algae in a reef tank. And forget about the Fatherites and methodists, they Jan 12, 2024 · If you notice the early appearance of hair algae try to get rid of it as soon as possible. Cheers, Todd Jul 6, 2020 · Does anyone know any nano algae eaters for a 3 foot 40 gallon tank, I can't have #tanggang so any ideas, I will have a diadema urchin btw, I heard they are AWESOME algae eaters. Mar 3, 2020 · The algae isn't growing or spreading anymore and I just want something to get rid of all of it. Excess algae can harm coral growth, reduce water quality, and detract from the beauty of your marine aquarium. Jan 13, 2021 · I used to work for a aquarium service company and I would say that I used Vibrant in about 90% of all my services. Feb 10, 2021 · Read the list below and find out which algae eaters can best fit your aquarium’s conditions. So, without further ado, let’s dive right into it. Fortunately there are a number a ways to get rid of green hair algae. Alot of the true and worth while algae eating fish, in my opinion get too large for a 30 gal, aka Jun 18, 2018 · They do not have great "cutting" mouths, so they aren't great at cutting hair algae strands, however they can eat the base of the algae off the rock. It’s the largest Turbo Snail species with a 14. Fortunately, several algae-eating fish can help manage this issue while adding beauty and diversity to your tank. Jan 6, 2025 · Dealing with algae problems in a reef tank is one of the most common challenges for saltwater aquarium hobbyists. As with time, it will spread more and it will be way difficult to get rid of the algae. Do you need the Hammer approach? Pick up some fluconazole via our affiliate link to support the channel and put an Nov 17, 2023 · Green hair algae, also known as GHA, is a long strand of fuzzy algae that grows on the glass or rocks of the aquarium. Others snack on some algae but that's basically it. I have 2 emerald crabs 20 hermit crabs and 1 tang but they don’t seem to do anything to the hair algae!! Any recommendations? Looking for Saltwater Algae Eaters to help tackle your algae woes? If yes, this video is for you. 14. Oct 25, 2025 · The Ultimate Guide: What is the Best Hair Algae Eater in the Reef Tank? The best all-around hair algae eater for a reef tank is the Emerald Crab (Mithrax sculptus). Hermit crabs graze short hair and brush algae. I used to have a turbo snail but it annoyed me cause it always knocked off my frags. For some reason i always get a hair algae outbreak on all my new setups for a few weeks, so as soon as the tank is cycled i add one two of these fish along with my cleanup crew and they take care of it really well. Listed below are the top 5 algae eaters Didn't destroy anything in my tank, but as a precaution before you start dosing remove most algae and siphon as much out as you can. Cleaners and Peppermints don't fight but the Peppermint won't do anything for your tank. But I wanted to start a discussion and get everyone's opinion on this. Starry and lawnmower blennies may eat hair algae, but can also be picky. The Dolabella Sea Hare, Dolabella auricularia, also known as the Wedge Sea Hare, is one of the best algae-eaters in the home aquarium. Other effective algae eaters are Acanthurus species, bristletooth tangs, snails, hermit crabs, and sea urchins. As much as I hate to say it, its a miracle cure with almost 0 downsides. 4 days ago · What is the Best Blenny That Eats Algae? The best blenny that eats algae in a reef tank is often considered the Ocularis Blenny, or Lawnmower Blenny, due to its voracious appetite and relatively peaceful temperament. Nobody wants hair algae in their tank unless they’re housing algae eaters that need feeding. From plecos to shrimps and beyond, discover the best freshwater algae eaters for nano aquariums! Nov 22, 2023 · Reef safe crabs play an important role in the health and longevity of a reef tank. If you're having problems with fish tank algae, check out our top 10 algae eaters that are safe for live plants and work well with each other. May 10, 2022 · I'm finding clean-up crews to be less than helpful when it comes to hair algae that is already established. He’s also the biggest baby in the tank and goes and hides any time I put my hands near the tank. Learn which species help control algae, sift sand, and remove detritus for a cleaner, healthier aquarium. Hey guys just looking for opinions from your own experiences regarding hair algae eaters. They, and the rest of the bristletooths, eat different algae. Feb 5, 2024 · Hi I have a 12 gallon cube i would like to add a fish/invert for algae control. Algae species belonging to several genera are designated as “hair,” but most cases involve Derbesia spp. Oct 6, 2024 · Rabbitfish, including the Foxface, effectively eat green hair algae. What's your issue? Oct 18, 2024 · Your saltwater tank algae guide to removing nuisance algae. Gorgeous little crabs. They are an easy-to-care for invertebrate and won’t bother others in the tank. Choose these species to maintain a balanced reef tank ecosystem. These are not only fish but also shrimp and even snails. I now rotate him between my 2 tanks and my brother and father borrow him from time to time. Mar 25, 2022 · Strictly fish? Probably a lawnmower blenny, although not guaranteed to eat algae and can be pretty aggressive towards other blennies or gobies. this is a virtual 100% success rate, given Hair algae are quite common in freshwater aquariums, but they also grow in saltwater. Parrotfish not only consume algae but also contribute to the Sep 13, 2023 · 5 Best Snails for GHA: Controlling Green Hair Algae in Reef Tanks In the vast world of reef aquariums, green hair algae (GHA) can be both a nuisance and a vibrant indicator of certain ecological imbalances. On the top of my rocks it looks to be growing hair algae? What would be my best option to have this go away? Jul 21, 2016 · Also, be prepared for increased skim-mate. They are really good hair algae eaters. It's used for filamentous green algae, which is what you have. I have no fish but 2 snails. Aug 2, 2024 · complete the ‘feel’ of a biotope. A tomini probably won't eat hair at all. Feb 5, 2018 · What fish would you recommend to help control algae in a 30 gallon reef tank? Aug 18, 2021 · Discover the best saltwater algae eaters, including fish, snails, and invertebrates, to keep your aquarium clean and healthy. Very minimal risk in my experience. Something that will live happily in a 30 gallon that will help clean the algae off the plugs. I would recommend against a lawnmower in a nano, as they often refuse offered foods and a tank that size may not meet their needs. These algae eaters contribute to a healthier aquatic ecosystem by efficiently consuming hair algae. In a sense they act as a janitorial service for your tank Finding the type of snail best suited to saltwater aquarium is crucial and these pros and cons can help guide you in your campaign to eliminate algae. Slowly growing by the base of some of my corals. My current clean-up crew of black-foot Torchus snails, scarlet hermit crabs, and 4 longspine urchins do a decent job to keep flat surfaces clean, but there are just too many nooks and crannies and areas Even though battling algae is best done by finding and solving the underlying nutrient or lighting issue, it certainly doesn’t hurt to have a few algae eaters in your tank to help keep it in check. Mar 30, 2024 · The Top 13 Saltwater Algae Eaters for a Clean Aquarium Before I go on to list some algae-eating creatures, I should first point out that there are many types of algae that could sprout in a saltwater tank. thx Aug 30, 2017 · What are everyones experiences with the best algae eating blenny? I have 36” tank and need a very peaceful fish to fit my system. Nov 18, 2023 · Introducing algae eaters can help decrease the amount of algal growth in your tank while also providing food to your newfound companions. I'm looking for suggestions (and preferably a purchase link :D) Here is I WROTE A BOOK!! get your copy today link below! Finn The Brave Blue Tang https://amzn. Problem is the tank is still new and I got some from it being so young but I want it gone. Algae can make your tank look dirty and smelly. I know it is probably because for a while I did not have my RO unit up and running and was using tap Aug 27, 2025 · Discover the top hair algae eaters for saltwater aquariums, effective solutions to reduce algae growth and promote a healthy marine ecosystem. Crabs are a natural part of a reef ecosystem since they help control algae, and they also consume uneaten food and debris from a sand substrate. What are the best Algae eating fish ranked? For reefs? For Fish Only? Thank you! Nov 16, 2025 · What eats brown hair algae in reef tank? is best answered with a combination of invertebrates like snails and crabs, and occasionally, certain fish, which all contribute to a cleaner, healthier ecosystem, naturally managing this unsightly nuisance. However, the bristletooth tangs (Genus Ctenochaetus) are generally considered the most effective and reef-safe algae eaters, known for their constant grazing habits. I have a 30 gallon reef bio cube that’s about 7 months old. Like many snail species, the Turbo snail has multiple variants, but today, we’re focusing on Turbo Fluctuosa. Combining these fish with tangs in a large reef aquarium improves algae management. He mows the stuff down! 3 days ago · Will a Lawnmower Blenny Really Eat Hair Algae? Understanding its Grazing Habits The burning question: Will a Lawnmower Blenny eat hair algae? The answer is typically yes, Lawnmower Blennies are renowned algae eaters, and hair algae is a preferred food source for many of them, making them valuable members of a reef aquarium cleanup crew. I am skimming good, feeding less, minimal fish, running GFO, etc. Urchins will happily munch of Coralline if there isn't enough algae. 32 Best & Worst Hair Algae Eaters (Fish, Shrimp & Snails) Disclosure: When you purchase something through my affiliate links, I earn a small commission. Looking at algae (lawnmower), black sailfin (fuscus), tail spot, and starry. Mar 7, 2025 · Struggling with hair algae in your aquarium? Our comprehensive guide offers practical solutions to eliminate this invasive growth, protecting your aquatic plants and enhancing tank aesthetics. While most websites and fish Saltwater algae eaters come in many shapes and sizes. Very cool fish, but won’t make a dent in the algae in my experience. Some of the Best Saltwater Aquarium Algae Eaters are: Maintaining a proper feeding schedule can help prevent algae issues. Mar 9, 2008 · I wanted anyone's opinion on what animal (fish or invert) worked best for them to eliminate/control hair algae in their nano. What are the best Green algae eaters that actually eats LONG hair algae, not just the algae that gets on the glass and fits into a 30 gallon. Dec 31, 2022 · For a smaller tank what snails are the best to control green hair algae but also reef safe? It seems they are all listed as eating algae. Mar 31, 2022 · I can attest to the advice above and say that reef flux (flucanozole) worked well for me as a last resort with my hair algae battle. They can lodge a foot into a crevice and become hard to relocate. Jun 7, 2020 · I am battling a hair algae out break currently in my tank. Even otos at home tank will require additional feeding. Be aware that their locomotion has been known to scratch acrylic tanks and be sure to purchase a tropical variety as most Abalones live in temperate waters. In a tank that small youd be better off using inverts for algae control instead of a fish. Heard of people with algae and dosing vibrant and that algae releasing pent up stuff and ammonia from decay. Jan 26, 2018 · There’s some lovely little algae eaters out there that can make a great addition to your tank while taking care of your algae problem. Ecological Balance: Algae eaters help maintain a more natural and balanced ecosystem within the tank. Today we are covering one of the best natural hair algae eaters in the reef tank. Sep 17, 2020 · Looking for an algae eating (mostly gha) fish that can hang in a 15gal for about a month or so till my new 50gal is up and running (consider it a quarantine tank as that is what I’ll convert this too once I get the bigger tank). Hector Feb 23, 2025 · Introduction Getting a marine algae eater is the most natural way to keep your reef tank clean, but do you know other species beyond fish have this trait? If you want to diversify your community, let me introduce you to the Turbo snail. Their grazing behavior Jun 21, 2024 · My foxy is an awesome algae eater. Nov 23, 2023 · Siamese Algae Eater. In this article, we feature not only the best Saltwater Algae Eaters but also learn what types of algae they can consume and control unwanted growth. Look up "blackout treatment". It is common for them to eat coralline algae, so if that is something you desire in your tank, keep that in mind. I'm considering a Black Sailfin Blenny, and was wondering what other options I should be considering Dec 31, 2020 · No more algae! Find the clean-up crew that will save your saltwater reef tank. Feb 6, 2014 · I know a lot of Tangs Love to Eat Hair Algae. Nov 5, 2025 · When shopping for the best hair algae eater for a reef tank, owners should consider their fish stocking, tank size, algae extent, and each species’ reef compatibility and tank requirements. This begins with reducing and controlling it, with the eventual aim of eradication. Concern: Are there any natural remedies for controlling hair algae in reef tanks? Answer: In addition to natural predators, maintaining a healthy tank environment with proper lighting, water flow, and nutrient levels can help prevent and control hair algae growth. Jul 5, 2023 · 5 Reef Safe Algae Eaters Do you have a reef tank? If you do, you probably know how annoying algae can be. Reef Safe. 6 days ago · What is the Best Saltwater Clean Up Crew for Algae? The best saltwater clean up crew for algae is a carefully selected combination of invertebrates, including snails, crabs, and sometimes even urchins, chosen based on the specific algae types present in your tank and the tank’s overall ecosystem. They are rather sensitive to pH and salinity changes and can take a little while to fully acclimate to a new tank Dec 17, 2024 · Looking for the best algae eaters to clean-up your aquarium? In this article I'll explain which fish, shrimp and snails are the best choice for your tank. Many snails take fine algae from the rocks and glass. May 12, 2013 · I got a sea hare when I was struggling with hair algae and he was a beast!! Only thing is they eventually run out of algae to eat. Jan 9, 2015 · From my experiences only, the best Tangs for particular Algae are the Kole Tang for eating most Red/Brown Turf Algae, Yellow's for eating Valonia/Bubble algae and Hepatus/Hippo for eating Hair Algae. Different types of algae eaters behave differently, but most have a calm temperament and can live peacefully with a variety of other aquatic creatures. Gives a lot of stability and the bacteria competes against the algae for nutrients, reducing significantly algae issues of any kind. Think Foxface Rabbitfish, with their tireless grazing habits, or Bristletooth Tangs, known for their razor-sharp teeth that make Jan 2, 2024 · Hey all, I’ve got quite the hair algae takeover happening in my 6 gallon nano, Macroalgae dominant mixed reef. If your tank is old, covered in coraline, and generally low nutrient, you may not have much algae growth and don't need a ton of snails. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. I thought about getting a sea hare but I have read that they can nuke my tank. Sep 8, 2024 · Do you want to get rid of hair algae in your tanks naturally? I'm here to help! Find out which is the best hair algae eater for your tanks with this guide. Some popular algae eaters are invertebrates like shrimp and snails, while other algae eaters are fish. Oct 7, 2023 · In my opinion, the best time to add them is when algae is first starting to take off. But I would like to do so with some of the more attractive algae eaters (preferably hair algae). slime, film, detritus. Best for size and color would be a pincushion or tuxedo urchin. Your best bet to preventing this algae from taking hold is to maintain a regular water change regimen, maintain your filtration and perform manual/natural algae removal as it forms. I am looking to add another fish to my tank. A scopas should eat hair algae well. May 22, 2021 · If you own a reef tank at your home, then you are well acquainted with the hair algae. Nov 4, 2021 · If you have problems with algae in your tank, you can get a saltwater fish with a big appetite for nuisance algae. Halloween and tuxedo urchins do a great job of eating various algaes. In 2 doses it eliminated around 80% of my hair algae and a 3rd dose probably would’ve eradicated it. One of the best snails for eating hair algae is the Mexican Turbo snail (Turbo fluctuosa). No one creature I’m about to list will be able to eat everything, but a combined Clean-up Crew could control the following algae types: Hair algae; Film algae; Filamentous algae – looks Jul 16, 2016 · I have a number of nuisance algae in my 100 gallon tank that I need to keep in check. the scientifically validated acclimation process is brackish water for 24 hours and then move them into full marine. Jan 6, 2019 · Hair algae spores and fragments are so abundant that keeping it out of the tank via quarantine is unlikely to be successful. Expert tips for a breathtaking aquarium transformation. Another excellent choice is the parrotfish. Hermit crabs Hermit crabs are small, cheap, and easy to find so feel free to add many of them to Jul 8, 2025 · Get some Pithos. I wanted to see what have people used that just completely mowed down the hair algae. I just want to collate a list of algae eating fishes suitable for a nano-reef about 30 gallons. GHA can grow quickly and starve out corals. . They are reef safe and are great for eating nuisance algae like bubble and hair. I have around 30 dwarf Ceriths, 15 Florida Ceriths, 5 Nerites, 6 Hermits, 2 green emerald crabs, and a lawnmower blenny. Urchins and Sea Hares produce the best results once the hair algae grows long, but have their own issues. I like going the natural way in my tank to remove the problem. We go over the top 7 Saltwater Algae Eaters that are best f Nov 14, 2018 · Seawitch submitted a new Article: Best in Shell: Snails for the Reef Aquarium Snails can be a very useful part of a reef tank, consuming algae, detritus and harmful microfauna that can make life difficult for your corals and fish. Oct 9, 2024 · The Naso tang is an effective saltwater fish for controlling brown algae. This herbivorous fish eats nuisance algae, helping to keep tanks clean. Go for the emerald. Apr 24, 2019 · The Good · Abalone: These voracious algae film eaters are best suited for a large tank with a film algae problem. They bring a lot of personality and utility to reef tanks, so let’s have a look at the 21 best algae-eating fish. 19 hours ago · The Benefits of Natural Algae Control Using natural algae eaters is a preferred method for many saltwater aquarium enthusiasts due to its advantages over chemical treatments. Dec 30, 2017 · Hectors and rainsford gobies are among the best hair algae eaters. I should preface this that my tank randomly gets specs of hair You’re always battling algae if you own a tank, but some creatures want to help! Check out this list of the best algae eaters for your freshwater tank. May 29, 2011 · The Best SMALL Fish for Hair Algae Control? - Reef Central Online Community User Name Nov 14, 2025 · By carefully selecting and maintaining these best hair algae eaters in saltwater, and implementing sound aquarium maintenance practices, you can create a thriving and algae-free saltwater aquarium. Check out the 21 Best Algae-eating saltwater fish! Scan through the list for a visual experience and learn about the algae-eating preferences of the individual species here, or jump down to the summary table Dec 21, 2023 · Are you struggling with a hair algae outbreak? This common nuisance algae leaves many aquarium keepers frustrated and even has some people tearing down their tanks. Tom explains what each one Oct 31, 2024 · Hey there reefers im having a issue with some long hair alge its not taking over just yet but want to get ahead of it before it does. The tank is a 150 gallon 6' tank. They won’t bother other inverts or fish you have in the tank. These species are usually reef-safe and help control hair algae growth effectively. Jan 21, 2021 · Hey team, Some friends and I put together this list for the Top 10 Algae Eating Fish in a Reef. (half strength SW for brackish). In this article, I will discuss what is unique about hair alga in saltwater tanks, what causes it, how to get rid of it, and what creatures eat it. Here are some of the best algae-eating fish (and some other aquatic animals) to add to your reef tank clean-up crew: Feb 10, 2025 · The good news is that there are also diverse types of aquarium algae eaters that you can employ to battle the nuisance. With consistent feeding and proper care, hair algae eaters can help keep algae growth in check over time. For me the zebrasoma tangs were good at eating macro algae while ctenochaetus tangs ate the most film algae. Green and brown algae are a big part of their diet, even in the wild, In an aquarium, they go around cleaning algae off the rocks and Jun 13, 2024 · Maintaining a clean and healthy saltwater aquarium can be challenging, especially when dealing with algae growth. Continuous Maintenance: They work 5 days ago · The absolute best algae-eating tang for a saltwater aquarium is subjective and depends on tank size and specific algae issues. I am looking for know critters to eat green algae. Herbivores are great for dealing with the various algae issues while the meat-eating variety help with leftover food. Hair algae can grow in saltwater May 7, 2017 · Looking for a good algae eater for my 30 gallon, 24"x24"x13" SPS frag tank. I was just wondering which Tangs are the Best at it? Jun 21, 2025 · Marine fish that eat algae include algae blennies, zebrasoma tangs, and rabbitfish. 2 years away and a converted marine to fresh eater tank has enabled me to appreciate the easier way of life and I’m To help ease the maintenance effort on algae control in your planted tank, there are actually some fish and invertebrates that you can add to the aquarium! These species are known for their ability to feed on common types of algae typically found in freshwater aquariums. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. By choosing the right hair algae eaters for your tank and providing them with a well-balanced diet, you can enjoy a clean and vibrant underwater ecosystem. Sea Hares can "ink" the tank and really need a lot of algae to survive. If they are added then, then hopefully they will keep the algae in check. tank?? Thanks, Doug Jan 21, 2011 · Hello all, Nuisance hair algae is something that every marine aquarist will experience at one time or another, or even constantly. These fish and invertebrates are important for managing algae and keeping reef tanks clean. Or the two, Urchin are probably less Jun 19, 2020 · They don’t pick at the algae to eat it directly, but to search for microfauna to consume within it. A strong, mixed clean-up crew would work best. What do you guys recconmend on getting fish wise to get rid of the alge? i Have a 32. So, to keep your tank clean, you have to know how to get rid of these hair algae from your reef tank. 10 Best Saltwater Fish That Eat Hair Algae 1. This ends up raising some questions among aquarists who own a reef tank. Algae blennies and Starry blennies also help control algae growth. Being as it is virtually everywhere and loves typical aquarium conditions, it will probably find a way to grow in your tank–a nearly inescapable aspect of reef keeping. Jun 28, 2020 · Mexican turbo, urchin, conch. Some crabs will even help control a cyanobacteria bloom before it takes over … Jun 7, 2018 · Hey Folks! I've got a bit of a hair algae problem . Red root— red root. Current stocking : 2 ocelaris clowns 1 pajama cardinal Some hammers A bicolor candy cane A few blastos 1 button scoly 2 trachys I’ve been thinking of a lawnmower blenny but i think my tank is too small. A couple of days of dark won't kill your live plants, but it'll kill off the algae. In your experience, what tang ate the most algae? I know all tangs are different in algae preferences, but I believe there will be a common trend. They are easy to care for and not aggressive. What is a Lawnmower Blenny and Why are They Popular Jun 14, 2024 · I have a bunch of patches of hair algae all over my aquascape. Other effective options are Siamese Algae Eaters and emerald crabs. All my Tangs both present and past have eaten most any Algae available to them. When a saltwater aquarium is within its first few years there will be times when it gets unexpected algae outbreaks but there are critters, techniques or products that will allow this ugly mess to be removed and when those do not work patience or better housekeeping will usually do the trick. Read on to find out more about hair algae. I have a 50gl AIO, so I can't have any Tangs. Tangs and Surgeonfish Surgeonfish and tangs are mostly herbivorous. I agree with neilanh, your gonna have to solve it. Discover the best saltwater snails for reef tanks. In terms of how many it all depends on how big the tank is, and how much algae is present. How long will it take for hair algae eaters to control algae growth in my tank? The time it takes for hair algae eaters to control algae growth in your tank will vary depending on the size of your tank and the amount of algae present. He even tries to eat the film algae on the glass and on snail shells. Other fish, like Tangs and Blennies, also manage brown algae. The Dolabella Sea Hare can clean an entire 125 gallon reef tank of all hair algae in about two weeks - they are quite the efficient janitors. May 7, 2025 · Struggling with green hair algae in your reef tank? Learn how to identify, prevent, and eliminate GHA using natural predators, physical removal, and nutrient control.