APT Fix
The smarter way to treat algae.
Especially effective for BBA, hair/string/fuzz and most forms of filamentous algae.
Gently biodegrades completely.
Spot-dose up to 1ml per 10L every 24 hours.
AN UNFAIR ADVANTAGE
While healthy plant mass is the #1 natural defence against algae, life is often unpredictable.
The filter or CO2 diffuser gets clogged. Grandpa overfeeds the fish. The auto-timer takes an unannounced holiday.
These shocks ( seemingly insignificant to us) weaken plants and give algae a window of opportunity to spawn.
APT Fix works to rebalance the system by targeting the fundamental weakness of algae- their comparatively less developed protective cell walls. When spot-dosed per the recommended dosage, it instantly arrests algae growth while allowing plants to recover.
This is the most effective approach, but be careful not to let the plants dry out. Avoid this method for treating algae on Mosses, Liverworts (Riccardia and Riccia etc.) and Vallisneria (Tape Grass).
This is our usual approach. To increase effectiveness, pause the filter before spot-dosing. And don't forget to turn the filter back on! The effect should be visible by the next day.
Most algae treatments use compounds that contain Copper, which is a powerful biocide.
The problem is that copper, like other heavy metals, accumulate over time and do long term damage to the tank's ecosystem.
APT Fix uses an active compound that biodegrades naturally within 24hours, with no nasty residues.
The best natural defence against algae is a healthy dominant plant mass. Tanks with alot of exposed, un-planted areas are far more susceptible to algae, in the same way that fertile open fields invite weeds to grow.
Aim to have at least 70% of the substrate planted. Plants are like trees in a forest. With the right conditions, they naturally outcompete algae.
The top algae trigger is organic waste and decaying matter. Never over-stock a tank in its early months. Livestock waste contributes significantly to algae issues in new tanks (< 3 months old).
Regularly change water the 2Hr Way and remove old/ decaying leaves. Stem plants require replanting of the healthy tops after trimming once or twice. Old deteriorating stems invite algae to bloom.
The above shows the result of a single dose of APT Fix via spot-dose method. By Day 2, the inactive BBA would usually change color to red and/or white. These would either decompose, or serve as food for algae-eaters and other microorganisms. By Day 7, the leaf is now mostly free of algae.
The above shows the result of a single dose of APT Fix via the drain-dose method. By Day 2, the hair-algae has lost some of its green color. By Day 5, all the hair algae has been deactivated. You can remove it completely using a fine brush.