Algae is a plant-like and photosynthetically active organism that traps light from the sun. It comes in many different colors, as well as single-celled and large, multi-celled types. Algae start growth from spores, reproducing quickly with only the presence of sunlight or synthetic light. According to Rauscher, “temperature also plays a big role in the rate of algae growth, as do various aspects of water quality such as pH levels, electrical conductivity, salinity and turbidity.”

 

The problem with algae growth in aquaponics systems is in that algae deprives other plants and organisms of oxygen.

 

Some of the aspects known to cause algae growth are:

1. Nutrients: the two nutrients most responsible for algae growth are nitrogen and phosphorous

2. Lighting: keeping your water reservoir as dark as possible will help to minimize algae growth

3. Temperature: algae tend to grow when the water temperature of a reservoir is warm (above 77°F)

4. Water flow: most algae grows best in water that is standing still

 

Algae Control

1. Nutrient dosers; these nutrients can be minimized by addition through an in-line nutrient injector, allowing the nutrients to reside in the grow bed media rather than the holding tank

2. Filters

3. Cleaning with a 1:10 ratio of hydrogen peroxide and water

4. UV Light

5. Light limitation

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References

Rauscher, Frank. (2015, December 01). Algae and Hydroponics. Retrieved from https://www.maximumyield.com/algae-and-hydroponics/2/1447