Gold or Green Algae

[John Brock]

I have some gold or green algae growing in my aquarium.  It is a 45 gallon tank with 13 3" to 6" tilapia.  I was thinking of introducing an algae eater but I'm not sure if anything I select will play nicely with my tilapia.  I also worry about the tilapia trying to eat the algae eater.  From what I have researched Plecos seem like a good choice except I read they can suddenly grow from youngsters to 2' adults.  I don't think the Plecos would be happy at that point in my smallish tank.  Fish and Aquaponics are both new to me so I would greatly appreciate any thoughts.