Brown Algae (Diatoms) Control Checklist

Identification

• Brown or dusty film on surfaces; therefore, color appears dull
• Usually found in new tanks within the first 2–6 weeks
• Easily wipes off with light pressure; in contrast, green algae are more stubborn.

Quick Removal Actions

• Wipe algae from glass and décor; meanwhile, avoid scratching surfaces.
• Gently clean or trim affected plant leaves so that plants can photosynthesize better.
• Siphon loosened algae during water changes; as a result, less debris will resettle.

Accelerate Tank Maturity

• Increase plant mass, especially with fast-growing stems(fast-growing plants recommended and for that you need the best nutrient rice soil like Fluval Bio Stratum).
• Use Good filter media like Fluval Bio fx or Seachem Matrix in your filter.
• Maintain stable conditions; furthermore, avoid drastic changes that delay cycling.

Water and Nutrient Management

• Perform weekly 20–30% water changes; consequently, excess nutrients reduce
• Do not overfeed fish; instead, feed only what they finish within minutesor feed your fish 100% food like Fluval bug bites and Life Aayu
• Dose fertilizers moderately in early stages; however, increase once plants become dense

Lighting & Flow

• Start with moderate lighting; then, raise intensity gradually for that you need an app controlled lights like Fluval plant 4.0 or Azur
• Maintain good flow across the aquarium; additionally, prevent dead spots and use Fluval 07 and fx series filter which is the best filters in the world
• Limit early photoperiods to 6–8 hours; otherwise, algae may bloom faster

Long-Term Prevention

• Encourage strong plant growth; as a result, plants outcompete algae
• Once stable, keep consistent fertilization; meanwhile, monitor levels periodically
• Balance nutrients, CO2, and light; therefore, long-term algae control improves

What to Avoid

• Do not rely solely on chemical algaecides; instead, use biological control
• Avoid reducing nutrients too much; otherwise, plants weaken
• Do not panic—diatoms are temporary; eventually, they fade as the tank matures

• Final Outcome:
• With time, stability, and routine care, diatoms naturally decline, and the aquarium becomes clearer and healthier.