Algae Treatments
Algae Lift
Algae Lift is a natural peroxide-based water treatment that removes algae from aquatic surfaces (e.g. plants, rocks, submerged equipment) so natural processes can break the algae down faster.
Biostim (Probiotics)
For long-term algae control, we recommend introducing beneficial bacteria to your water with Biostim—a 100% natural probiotic for dams, lakes and ponds.
The “good” bacteria in Biostim consume nutrients in your water, reducing available food (e.g. nitrogen and phosphorus) for algae. The bacteria also feed on organic material like sludge which is fertiliser for algae. So Biostim reduces the chances of algae returning.
Algae Attack Bundles
Algaecides
To kill your algae, we recommend the below algaecides. Keep in mind, algaecides will upset your ecosystem, including the “good” bacteria who compete with algae. So our recommendation if you do use algaecide is to use a product like Biostim (above) to replenish the “good” guys. Otherwise, the algae will be back, and sooner than ever because you have less allies to defend your ecosystem.
Pro tip: Use algaecide in tandem with Biostim Accelerator (below) to use less chemical and get faster results.
Biostim Accelerator
Biostim Accelerator is a 100% natural biocatalyst that accelerates the effectiveness of algaecides by speeding up the breakdown of the hard-to-penetrate slime layer, allowing the algaecide to get in contact with the algae faster. This means less chemical can be used to achieve the same result. Biosim Accelerator also cleans up the dead material ensuring it doesn’t become sludge, fertiliser for next season’s algal bloom.
Floating algae
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DeSkuzzer 2.0
Manually remove floating weeds, algae and debris, and get a workout.
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Algae Treatments
Algae, through a natural component of aquatic ecosystems, can quickly become a nuisance when it grows uncontrollably. Excessive algae growth seriously threatens water quality in everything from garden ponds to vast water bodies.
As algae blooms, it can deplete oxygen and release harmful toxins in the water. Therefore, using proper algae treatments can maintain healthy and sustainable environments for aquatic life.
So, what water treatment should you use to combat algae infections? Love My Dam stocks various solutions to improve water quality and eliminate toxins. Browse our selection above to learn more.
Understanding Algae and Its Growth
Algae are a diverse group of photosynthetic organisms that play a role in aquatic ecosystems by contributing to oxygen production. It can also serve as a food source for specific fish in the water. However, when conditions become favourable, algae can experience sudden growth that disrupts water quality and damages the natural ecosystem.
These organisms come in different shapes, colours, and sizes. They range from microscopic single-celled plants to large multicellular seaweeds. Some common types include green algae (Chlorophyta), blue-green algae (Cyanobacteria), brown algae (Phaeophyta) and red algae (Rhodophyta).
Green algae is the most common type since it occurs in nutrient-rich, eutrophic waters. A blue tint, blue-green algae, can mean the algae produce harmful toxins, while a red tint suggests the water is too warm and has high nutrient levels.
Other factors that influence and contribute to an algae bloom include::
- Sunlight: Algae requires sunlight to produce food. Increased exposure to sunlight can accelerate algae growth in nutrient-dense water.
- Nutrient levels: Algae must have many nutrients to grow, particularly nitrogen and phosphorus. Factors such as urban pollution, agricultural runoff and inadequate water waste treatment can increase these nutrients. Probiotic treatments like Biostim reduce these nutrients.
- pH levels: Many algae species prefer neutral pH, but dangerous forms like blue-green algal blooms can thrive in more acidic conditions.
- Presence of sediments: Sediments are detached soil particles that act as a reservoir for algae growth. Disturbances that resuspend sediments can provide additional nutrients to algae.
Algae Treatment Methods
Controlling algae growth is essential for maintaining the health and natural balance of aquatic environments. Various algae treatments are available, each with its advantages and benefits. You should choose a method that works for your water feature and level of algae growth.
Above are some popular algae treatment methods.
Manual tools
Using manual tools is best for small bodies of water, such as small dams and ponds.
For example, some nets pull algae from the surface. Removing floating algae ensures it doesn’t pollute the water. On the other hand, bottom blankets kill algae and aquatic weeds by blocking their access to sunlight. In turn, they won’t receive enough nutrients to continue growing.
Love My Dam has a range of manual tools to help you clean your water. One includes The DeSkuzzer, a dragging tool that clears filamentous algae from the surface and tidies debris from dams.
Chemical algaecides
Chemical algaecides are compounds that kill or inhibit algae growth. They are commonly used in large bodies of water, including lakes, dams and reservoirs.
You can buy chemical treatments like cupricide algicide to disrupt the algae’s cellular processes and promote cell death. Algaecides usually contain copper-based compounds, quaternary ammonium compounds or hydrogen peroxide. Cupricide algicide only contains copper. There is also kupramine algicide that is suitable for artificial water environments.
Always use these products in tandem with Biostim Accelerator which is a natural catalyst, reducing how much algaecide you need to use.
Biological algae control
Biological control involves using natural predators, competitors or other organisms to manage algae populations. This is an eco-friendly approach that doesn’t use chemicals or any harsh substances to regulate water. Instead, you can use beneficial bacteria, aquatic plants or herbivorous fish to stop algae from overpopulating.
At Love My Dam, we sell Biostim tablets that feed good bacteria in your water. Made from bacterial cultures, enzymes and nutrients, this product helps eradicate algae through outcompeting it. I.e. Biostim consumes nutrients algae also needs. When Biostim bacteria consume most of the available nutrients, other pests are starved out. There simply isn’t enough food to grow.
We also have Biostom pellets, liquid and powder versions, depending on how much you want to use.
Prevention and Maintenance Strategies
While algae treatments are essential for controlling algal toxins, implementing preventive measures can reduce excessive algae growth. Addressing the root causes of algae growth can foster a healthier and more balanced aquatic environment.
Here are some effective prevention and maintenance strategies.
- Nutrient control: You can control nutrients by minimising nutrient-rich runoff from entering your water, ensuring proper waste management and using phosphorus-free fertilisers on the areas surrounding the water body. Probiotics like Biostim also help with nutrient control.
- Aeration and circulation: Aeration promotes oxygenation in the water and prevents algae growth. Tools like bubble air diffusers can maintain oxygen levels to discourage algae development.
What Algae Treatments Should I Use for My Water Feature?
Algae treatments play a crucial role in preserving the health of an aquatic ecosystem. From manual tools to biological solutions, you can find a treatment that efficiently cleans your water surface and body.
Love My Dam has various treatments catering to each type of algae. Whether that’s algae lift to stop the organisms that produce toxins or a biological agent that improves the effectiveness of algaecides and herbicides.
Eager to learn more about algae treatments? Contact us today to discover which treatment is the best algae killer for your water feature.