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Can anyone reccomend a plant that will feast on phosphates? The phosphate levels in my tank are moderate to high and I've already killed some of my clown loaches using phosphate remover in my filter. I'm looking for a more natural approach besides constant waterchanges.
Thanks, James.

james747
besides constant waterchanges

Can you explain that statement. You should be doing a minium of 10% weekly anyway.

If your water supply has too much phosphates in it regarless of the amount of water changes will fix that.
Can you collect rainwater? As this should help.

Another question there must be other Aquarium keepers in your area having the same problem, well than what are they doing to eliminate the problem.

Keith

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Hi Keith, Thanks for the reply. I've tested my tap water and it contains little to no phosphate. I have discovered that most of the flake foods I feed the fish are the main cause. I'm currently changing the types of food to reduce the phosphate levels and have beed careful not to overfeed. My LFS is going to try and get me some specialised food that contains little phosphate (can't remember it's name!). I don't like to upset the balance in the tank by doing lots of waterchanges over a short period that's why I'm looking for maybe a plant that can do the job.
Cheers, James.

High PO4 will not harm fish. pH down is 30% H3PO4 and Discus buffer is loaded with PO4(or use to be etc).
10-20ppm etc.

Fish food has far more NO3, than PO4.
High levels can and will cause issues there.
Removing the PO4 from your water will cause a back up of NO3 BTW, since plants need it to utilize NO3.

Do 50% weekly water changes. Takes the same amount of time to do that vs 10%.Use a python water changer, no buckets etc.

Regards,
Tom Barr

Thanks for the info Tom. I think I might be concerned over nothing. Appreciate your input.
James.

Simply reduce feedings to every other day, with daily small water changes.