How To Safely Remove Algae From Frag Plugs?
If you are a coral enthusiast like us at Reefco Aquariums, you may have encountered the pesky problem of algae smothering your coral frag plugs. While algae plays a crucial role in the marine ecosystem, in excess it can cause more harm than good, such as negatively affecting the coral health and aesthetics inside your reef aquarium.
At Reefco Aquariums, we understand the importance of maintaining frag plugs to optimize coral growth - you’ve only got to look inside our coral farm. So, if algae is getting out of control on your frag plugs, don’t panic! Keep reading to dive into the world of algae removal and discover effective methods to keep your frag plugs clean and your corals thriving.
What Is A Coral Frag Plug?
For the newbie reefers joining us before we dive into algae removal, let’s understand what a frag plug is and why it is essential in the reef-keeping hobby.
A coral frag stands for coral fragment - a small piece of a larger coral colony. Fragging is a popular hobby, which involves cutting or breaking a piece of mature coral to propagate new colonies. This technique is essential for coral conservation and allows you to grow and share coral species without depleting wild coral populations.
Frag plugs are small, typically disk-shaped, and made from ceramic, plastic, or aragonite. They form the base for coral frags to attach and grow. Frag plugs are great as they make it easy to move corals between tanks and provide a stable and suitable surface for healthy coral growth.
Why Does Algae Grow On Frag Plugs?
Understanding the cause of algae growth on frag plugs is key to prevention and management.
- Nutrient-rich Environment: Excess nutrients such as nitrates and phosphate are known to fuel algae growth.
- Surface Area: As frag plugs have flat surfaces, they provide an ideal substrate for algae to attach and grow.
- Ample Lighting: The lighting that benefits your corals can also promote algae growth.
- Water flow: Areas in your aquarium with low water movement are more likely to accumulate algae.
- Organic Matter: Decaying organic matter can increase nutrient levels which encourages algae growth.
Common Types Of Algae In Aquariums
Different algae types may require specific removal, so it is key to identify which culprit you may encounter:
- Cyanobacteria: This algae often appears slimy with a reddish-purple or green film.
- Green Algae: Often appears as a thin film or fuzzy-like growth.
- Red Algae: This algae can form delicate, feathery-like structures or crusty patches on the frag surface.
- Brown Algae: Also known as Diatoms, these are usually seen as a slimy brown coating.
- Hair Algae: As the name suggests, this algae has long, stringy filaments.
Effective Algae Removal Techniques For Frag Plugs
Once you have identified which algae you have on your frag plugs, you will want to do something about it before it takes over. There are various methods to remove algae from your frag plugs.
Manual Removal
The first line of defense is usually manual removal. This hands-on approach can be highly effective for visible algae growth.
Soft Brush Method
Gently scrub the frag plug with a soft toothbrush or specialized coral brush to avoid damaging the coral tissue.
Tweezers
For larger algae patches, carefully pluck off the algae using aquarium-safe tweezers (do not try using your tweezers!).
Water Jet
Using a turkey baster or pipette, direct a strong water stream at the algae to dislodge it from the plug. When using this algae removal method, be careful if you have sensitive corals such as SPS or soft corals that would get damaged.
Spot Treatment
For the more stubborn algae, use a syringe to apply hydrogen peroxide directly to the affected area, avoiding any coral attached to the frag plug - we recommend removing the coral from the frag plug if possible.
Chemical Treatments
Sometimes manual removal isn’t enough, and chemical treatments are required.
Hydrogen Peroxide Dip
Create a solution of 1 part 3% hydrogen peroxide to 10 parts tank water. Using gloves and goggles, dip the frag plug into the mixed solution for 30 seconds to 2 minutes, then rinse the frag plug thoroughly before placing it back into your aquarium.
Coral Dips
Commercial coral dips often contain ingredients that can help remove algae without harming corals. Always check the ingredients and manufacturer's instructions to be sure, or contact the Reefco Aquarium team if you are unsure - we are always happy to help!
Lemon Juice Baths
If you don’t have any of the above, have a look in your kitchen cupboards and see if you have lemon juice. Because of its acidic properties, a short soak in diluted lemon juice can help dissolve some types of algae like green algae.
Vinegar Solution
A mix of 1 part white vinegar to 20 parts aquarium water can be effective for some algae such as green and red algae.
NOTE: Always research and test chemical treatments on a smaller scale before widespread use to ensure coral safety.
Biological Control
Nature often provides the best solutions, so consider these biological algae control methods.
Herbivorous Fish
These grazers make fantastic algae eaters and cleaning fish for aquariums - tangs, blennies, and some surgeonfish can help keep algae growth in check.
Snails
Trochus and Cerith snails are brilliant for cleaning frag plugs.
Sea Urchins
Some urchin species are adapted to grazing on algae from various surfaces like frag plugs. These include green sea urchins, purple sea urchins, pincushion urchins, and long-spined sea urchins.
Hermit Crabs
Some hermit crabs are known to love munching on algae. These include the dwarf blue leg hermit crab, dwarf red tip hermit crab, dwarf yellow tip hermit crab, Halloween hermit crab, dwarf zebra hermit crab, and the emerald crab.
NOTE: Always check the compatibility with your current fish and coral stock before you add any new fish.
Environmental Management
Prevention is always key. Ensure you manage your aquarium environment to discourage excessive algae growth using the following steps:
- Nutrient control
- Lighting adjustment
- Improve water flow circulation around frag plugs
- Phosphate and nitrate reduction
Conclusion
Removing algae from frag plugs is a key skill for any coral enthusiast. By combining manual removal, chemical treatments, environmental management, and biological control, you can keep your frags nice and clean and your corals happy and healthy.
At Reefco Aquariums, we’re passionate about helping reef keepers succeed. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced aquarist, we are here to support your coral-keeping journey.
Have any questions about algae control, frag selection, or coral care? Do not hesitate to reach out to our team at Reefco Aquariums. Happy reefing!
