Algae on Java ferns but not on other plants

[LosC]

My javas are the smallest plants in my tank and I keep most of them in shady areas by rocks and driftwood. Why is it and how is it possible that the ferns have algae but my other plants don't or have minimal?

[xoolooxunny]

the slower growing leaves of the java fern, plus excess nutrients in the water make for a good place for algae to grow. Algae on plant leaves is usually a good indicator of nutrient/light imbalance.

[LosC]

So should I reduce the amount of time the lights are on? I currently have the lights on for 10-12 hours a day.

[Lady Hobbs]

And I could write: algae on swords only! Drives me nuts.

I just removed my java to another low light tank. The nutrients you are using are probably causing it.

[LosC]

nothing but fish waste in my tank and I do extra water changes (20% every 3 days). Could this mean I am over stocked? or is it just the light causing the algae?

[smaug]

Algae will always be more noticeable on slow growing plants such as javas.It is difficult to keep them in mixed company with plant the require extra nutrients or higher light.They are best kept in a tank with other plants that require similar parameters.

[doug z]

Is it in the tank with the otos?

Are they taking care of some of the algae?

[LosC]

I moved some of the ferns out of my 30 and into my 20. I;ve had the Otos in my 30g for 3 or 4 days now. Theres 2 ferns left in my 30 that are covered in algae, I've seen the Otos grazing on it a few times but no major clean up job done on them yet, they're always sucking on the wall or my large amazon sword. How long does it usually take for Otos to clean off plants?

[doug z]

Good question..

Let us know how they do..