I am at a loss on how to get rid of this green water permanently.


Hi Brian,

I think you are doing everything right and there is nothing much to worry
about. It is a new setup so it is to be expected that you may encounter some
algae. For green water problem some people recommend to completely darken
aquarium for 4 days which you have done with partial success. However, that
method may result in you not liking how your plants have grown during the
four days of no light. I prefer the UV-sterilizer method. UV-sterilizers are
inexpensive and they will solve the problem 100%. If you don't want to buy
one, chances are your friendly local fish store will lend you one for a few
days.

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Regards,
Marvin Hlavac
Toronto, Canada