Tropical Fish Forums

[krt]

I currently have 4 tanks, all relatively new setups. everyone of the tanks has this oilly(?) film on top of the water. I can't seem to remember a time when I didn't have it in my tanks. (over past 5 years)

three of the tanks are planted, I use a water conditioner when I change the water, all have driftwood and are probably populated close to the max

what is it? (oil from my skin?)
should I get rid of it?
how

[TolkienGeek]

Its not something to worry too much about. It's a build up of proteins. Lots of suface turbulance will break it up or to truely remove it you can use a paper towel to blot it up. Water changes help, too. Again, its not harmful, ugly yes but not harmful.

Hope this helps...
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Never sniff a gift fish.- Patrick McManus

"Would you eat poo?" - Said the Corydoras catfish...

[krt]

thanks... I think that's what I wanted to hear.

[brett_fishman]

yep, just get a paper towel an lay it flat on the surface, then take it off, this will get it off. just don't use the same paper towel again, it'll put the protein right back on the water..
works like a charm!

-brett.
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10g with aquaclear mini:
2 pearl gouramis [going to 75]
1 sunset platy
1 yoyo loach [going to 75]

[McP]

This oil can be an indicator of a few things. You should consider what, how much, and how often you are feeding. What is your w/c schedule like. This oily buildup can be avoided in most cases with a changed feeding schedule and maintenance regime.

[fishlover888]

The best way to get rid of the film is to have surface water movement. I used to have the same problem. It is more likely what you feed your fish that cause it.

I use my power head outlet to aim at the surface and create some movement. That did the trick for me. The problem with planted tank is that you may have a co2 system, which you really don't want too much water surface movement since it will make the co2 escape faster.
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125 g discus tank 13 discus, 5 Sterbai cory, 3 clown loaches, 1 Albino BN pH 6.3 50% WC x2/wk
2 g nano tank 3 Danio, pH 7.6 80% WC/ 2 days

[McP]

Surface disturbance will break up the film and take care of the issue aesthetically but the DOC/Protein buildup is still there. Disturbance is effective but in my opinion water changes and careful feeding are the best answers.

[krt]

thanks all.. I went w/ the paper towell method and it seems to work well. glad to know it's not a horrible problem.....

[Serkan]

Ewww Oil