Goldfish hobbyists are turning to green water because of the benefits it shows in the natural ecosystem of their tanks. The green water used by the most serious goldfish breeders can deliberately influence the evolution and expansion of their fish. While this is a really good strategy, it should be watched carefully until a large amount of strong green algae develops in the tank.
The effects of green water on your goldfish
For goldfish farmers trying to control the rate at which their fish grow, one of the most powerful tools is green water. When the tank sports substantial green water, the fish will be calmer and less energetic. This in turn directs protein from their diet to their wen, which aids in the growth cycle. If the goldfish keeper wants to control the growth of wen or encourage other growth areas, they simply need to dilute the algae and the fish will once again be more active with the protein going toward growth in body mass and size.
Warning signs to watch out for
If the plan is to grow the green algae in your tank, you should be aware that it will take time and trial and error to create the correct green water supply formula. The first problem could be green algae growing too fast. This will cause the tank to become too cloudy, leading to behavioral defects in the fish. Algae abundance is best dealt with by controlling the amount of light the tank receives. Tanks that are constantly exposed to light will grow algae that will soon fill the entire tank. The recommended lighting as stated by the experts would be 8-12 hours per day for a green water tank. However, some hobbyists have had success reducing lighting to 5 hours a day.
If your tank fills with algae, you may have no alternative but to change the water. Experts recommend that this is only necessary when the tank is cloudy enough that you can’t see the fish swimming in it when looking down. Due to the speed with which algae reproduce, too high a population must be compensated with a 90% water change. Although overcrowded, it is important to leave a minimum amount of algae to promote regrowth of the necessary organisms required.
In addition to green algae, there are other forms of algae that can grow in the same type of conditions, but have no benefit to goldfish. The most common is the blue-green algae, this is difficult because it is not really an algae; is a bacterium that is represented as a layer of blue colored slime throughout the tank. It will grow on glass, gravel, rocks, or whatever plants you have in the tank. The only way to rid your goldfish tank of these bacteria is a thorough cleaning and water changes.
A good mix of green water and natural water is the best way to control and maintain healthy growth in your goldfish. High concentration of algae will lead to larger wen and other visible changes in your fish. By lowering the green algae into the water, the fish will be more active and will develop more body length and mass. Remember though, when using a green water tank you should always be on the lookout for harmful types of algae growing and constantly monitor the tank light to regulate sudden outbreaks of algae growth.
