Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Has anyone ever heard of using vinegar to help make water slightly acidic to help keep algae from growing? If so, how much vinegar to a gallon of water? I was needing to know to keep algae from growing in my 3-toed amphiuma(Amphiuma tridactylum)tub, my florida softshell tub, and possibly with my newt tanks(which have live plants). Any information would be greatly appreciated. Macro

Hey, Ive never heard of useing vinager in aquariums (besides to clean it). Also im not sure if acidity will prevent plant growth. Peat Fiber will lower the pH (make more acidic) of water but I havent noticed any change in plant growth from peat. One thing you might try is a phosphate remover (can buy them from fish stores) they get rid of the phosphates in the water wich in turn prevents algea growth(look like little packs, you would stick in your filter). The only problem would be your live plants will also probaibly die off. The best way to get rid of algea safely IMO is to get down and dirty with an algea scrubber (most of the preventative algea eaters will get eaten by your guy's). Also a healthy tank is a tank with algea, so please dont go off and use algeacide or any chemicals as amphibians are very vulnerable to it. Good luck.

Thanks Jax for the info. I would not use algaecide. MaCrO