Does Uv Light Kill Algae In Fish Tanks

Uv sterilizers can kill microorganisms but could be a bit too effective as could algae killing formulations.

Does uv light kill algae in fish tanks.

Radiation prevents it from reproducing. Uv units have no effect on algae that is already growing on the glass or live rock. Algae can be extremely problematic for both beginner and experience aquarists so everyone can benefit from an aquarium sterilizer. Some aquarists worry that uv will eliminate the natural plankton population in their tanks.

The ultraviolet light inside the sterilizer can effectively eliminate all the harmful bacteria algae and viruses out of your fish tank. To get rid of green water you can blackout the tank for at least a week which is hard on your plants. It may be better to put a decorative background on three sides or install some adjustable blinds that keep direct sunlight from hitting the aquarium. As aquarium water is filtered through the uv chamber it is exposed to the light and irradiated.

By showering algae with ultraviolet rays a uv sterilizer kills algae the same way it kills other microorganisms. You can perform water changes to remove the dead algae and add some clearer water. Aquarium uvs will clear up stubborn algae blooms in freshwater marine and reef aquariums in a matter of days. Because algae contribute so much to the turbidity of your water killing free floating algae dramatically improves your tank s clarity.

Besides it has the capability to ultimately stop the production of any microorganism inside your aquarium. Once killed the algae remains in the tank so the water could stay green. Free floating microalgae are also killed by uv systems. The way a uv sterilizer works is through a special fluorescent bulb which emits light at a wavelength of 253 7 nanometers.

One of the biggest benefits of uv sterilizers for algae control is that they are very easy to use. Another option is to purchase a uv sterilizer which will kill off the algae within two to three days.