Cloudy Water

Cloudy water in your aquarium is typically caused by one of two things: a bacterial bloom or an algae bloom. Understanding the difference between these two can help you determine if any action is needed and how to resolve the issue.

1. Bacterial Bloom

   • A bacterial bloom causes the water to appear milky white and cloudy. This type of bloom is common in newly established aquariums and is a natural part of the cycling process. It occurs when bacteria multiply rapidly as they begin breaking down organic waste. While it may look concerning, bacterial blooms are generally harmless and short-lived. There’s no need for any drastic actions—just let the system run its course. However, if you’d like to speed things up, adding extra filter media may help establish beneficial bacteria more quickly.

2. Algae Bloom

   • An algae bloom, on the other hand, turns the water green. While it isn’t harmful to fish, it can indicate an imbalance in your tank’s environment, such as excess nutrients or light. To clear up a green water algae bloom, refer to the algae control section for strategies to address the root cause and restore balance in your aquarium.

Cloudy water can also result from new substrate that hasn’t been thoroughly rinsed before adding it to the tank. This dust, while not harmful to your fish in moderation, can cloud the water temporarily. It’s best to allow the dust to settle before introducing fish, but occasional disturbances are not a cause for concern.