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Diatoms (Brown Algae)
Bacillariophyceae spp.
Also known as Brown Algae
Chromista›Bacillariophyta›Bacillariophyceae›Bacillariophyta
📍 Worldwide in freshwater
Brown, dusty coating on glass, substrate, and decorations — the most common algae in newly set-up tanks. Feeds on silicates from tap water and substrate. Almost always disappears on its own within 6–8 weeks once silicates are depleted. Otocinclus catfish and nerites clean it rapidly.
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Quick Facts
- role
- nuisance — temporary
- cause
- new tank, silicates in water
- control
- Otocinclus, nerite snails, patience — usually self-resolves
Water it likes
- ph
- 6.5–8.0
- hardness
- 2–20 dGH
- temperature
- 59–77°F (15–25°C)
Legality
No state or federal restrictions on record for this species.
Not legal advice, and possibly incomplete or out of date. Rules vary by state and locality and change over time — always confirm the current regulations with your state wildlife or agriculture agency before buying, keeping, or shipping this species.