Staghorn Algae

[bobhed]

Hi everyone!

I need some advice. How can I get rid of staghorn algae? I’ve never had this type of algae and I’ve read several articles but not sure how to best get rid of it. I have a planted tank and want to be careful to not harm the fry I have in the tank. It’s a 55 gallon planted tank. I don’t use CO2. Thank you for any help you can provide!

[Phantom240]

Easy Green or Excel. What ferts are you dosing? Staghorn is usually related to an excess of iron.

[bobhed]

I started using Excel. I just started using the Easy Green again today. The excess iron makes sense then because it happened after putting in liquid iron because I thought some of the plants needed it. I’ve stopped using it. 
 

I have a Fluval 407. Should I remove the Purigan filter while I am adding Excel? 

[aquachris]

Had that issue, I ended up doing lights out for a few weeks with excel.  That cleared it out a ton, what was left on some plants I pulled.

[Mmiller2001]

9 times out of 10, Staghorn is caused by ammonia or excessive organics in the water. 

Increase water changes. 

Increase maintenance.

Improve filtration.

Cut away old or struggling portions of plants and replant.

Spot dose a liquid carbon (do research first on liquid carbons).

Ensure fertilization is meeting the needs of your plants.

https://www.2hraquarist.com/blogs/algae-control/how-to-get-rid-of-staghorn-algae

[bobhed]

Thanks everyone. I use Purigen instead of carbon in the Fluval. Should I remove the Purigen while putting the excel in?

[Mmiller2001]

I would spot dose, with filters off. Wait 10 minutes and then water change.

Repeat as necessary.