Well, to continue our previous post, today we are going to tackle how to get rid of Green Hair algae. Actually, I’m going to give you some prevention tips as well, so you won’t ever have to actually “get rid” of the algae.
Green hair algae thrives in a salt water aquarium environment because the lighting and current systems closely resemble their natural habitat. Sadly, scrubbing away the algae has little or no effect, because spores often attach themselves to species living in the aquarium.
The best way to prevent the invasion fo green hair algae is to use a protein skimmer that is both the right size and strength for your tank. This skimmer will get rid of the proteins and nutrients that algae need to thrive. Another way to prevent algae from growing is to perform regular water changes. This too will get nutrients and proteins out of your fish tank, as well as make it look nice and clean!
You should also decrease lighting if you notice an influx of algae activity. This will cut down the photosynthetic opportunities for the algae, slowing it’s growth. Another way to nip the green hair algae problem in the bud is to introduce herbivores like snails and hermit crabs to your tank. You could also add some detrivores as they eat excess foot. Hermit crabs and sea cucumbers are good examples of detrivores that get the job done quickly.
If you notice algae in your aquarium you should immediately stop adding any supplements to your tank. Some of these supplements provide all of the nutrients and energy that green hair algae needs to grow, and once this stuff starts growing, its a hard thing to stop. If you do have an infestation of algae, and none of the previously mentioned methods have eradicated the little devils, there are a few more drastic steps that you can take.
Introducing macroalgae to your tank will suck out the nutrients that algae thrive on. However, macroalgae could be potentially harmful to other species in your tank, so be sure to read all instructions and warnings before 
introducing microalgae to your tank. You could also use chemical controls, which I wouldn’t recommend until completely necessary. Both macroalgae and chemicals can be purchased at your local pet store.
I hope these posts have been helpful! It’s great to stop algae before it starts, but if you can’t getting rid of it as soon as possible is a great goal. If you have any more tips for aquarium owners out there, let us know by posting a comment today!