Algae undoubtedly belong in ponds or aquariums, but they should not get out of hand there. One of the absolutely natural ways to contain algae and prevent an infestation is with alder cones. But can such a simple remedy actually work well? Read this article.
Do alder cones work against algae?
Alder cones workexcellent against algae They are best used for prevention. On the one hand, this is possible with special algae remedies that contain, among other things, alder cones. On the other hand, you can also simply add whole (dried) alder cones to the water.
What effect do alder cones have on algae?
You can't remove algae from aquarium plants with algae cones, but you can limit the growth andspread of the algae This is partly because alder cones increase the pH value of the water lower, so it becomes “sour”. However, algae prefer alkaline water (with a high pH). The old home remedy peat has a similar effect against algae. However, it should no longer be used for reasons of climate protection.
Where can I get suitable alder cones?
You can buy alder cones at a specialist aquarium storeor simply collect them yourself in the forestThe latter is of course more cost-effective, but also not very time-consuming. More than a walk in the right place at the right time of year (autumn or winter) is not necessary. Black alder or gray alder cones are suitable. If you collect these from the ground, you will only get mature and not immature cones. When picking, you should also only harvest the dark, ripe suppositories.
How do I properly insert alder cones in the aquarium?
Simply add the (dried) cones to your aquarium. About one to two cones per ten liters of water are completely sufficient to start with. Later you can slowly increase the dosage if you wish or if it is appropriate for other reasons. The cones can remain in the water, even if their effect wears off significantly after about two to four weeks, but they only decompose slowly. So remove the old cones if too many accumulate in the aquarium.
What other advantages and disadvantages do alder cones have?
Alder cones not only work against algae in the pond or aquarium, they also have an antibacterial and anti-fungal effect. For example, alder cones prevent fin rot or in fish or the fungus in fish spawn.
There are basically only two disadvantages to mention, namely the (harmless)brown coloringand thereduced light transmission of water.
Tip
Do not boil alder cones
No matter whether you buy alder cones or collect them yourself in nature: never boil the cones before adding them to your aquarium. Boiling causes the cones to lose their effectiveness. Occasionally it is recommended to pour hot water over the alder suppositories to kill any parasites that may be present. This is usually not necessary, especially since you are probably using undamaged tenons.
