Question on algae management and Worms for beds

[Nick Scud]

Hi again all - I hope I'm posting this question in the correct area.. 

1)  What is the best way to manage algae growth??  I've tried to block out of much sunlight as possible from the tank, but there will always be SOME light hitting the tank..   I'm noticing a pretty quick rate of algae build-up happening in my tank since fish are in.  I also understand algae can cause an oxygen problem for fish.. not so much when the algae is living, but rather when it DIES..  any input would be appreciated.

2)  What are the correct worms I want to put into the grow beds??  I wasn't sure if I wanted worms in there or not, but after reading deeper, It seems apparent that I'll want some worms in the grow beds themselves.  I'm using 1/3 stalite and 2/3 granite-crush as media.  Which are the right worms to use, and where's the best place to get them??

thanks again forum, for all your input and suggestions!  hope everyone has a great Memorial Day Wknd.

-n

[Vlad Jovanovic]

You want Eisenia fetida (or anything very similar sometimes sold as E. fetida). 

Aka. California Red Worms, Red Wrigglers, Red Composting Worms, Red Tigers Worms and probably a whole bunch of other 'popular names'...but basically you want any type of composting worm. Don't bother with any burrowing type worms (like 'earth worms' night crawlers etc)...

Just toss in a handful in each bed, they'll quickly disappear into your media They self regulate their population according to the amount of food available. 

So that you don't introduce any nasties like e.coli (since many sellers worms were fed cow manure to compost) it's advisable to rear your own bin (with veggie scraps) for about six months first...But you can probably find a reputable AP appropriate source if you ask around the forum...Try talking to Converse (a member here). IMO he is absolutely "the go to guy" here on the forum for anything worm related. He runs a worm farm and I believe sell worms via mail. Check out some of his posts/threads on worms...very informative stuff...

A little bit of algae isn't a big deal...just don't let it get out of hand :) 

[George]

I vouch for Converse (Mrs.) for e.coli free worms and good service.  

algae - you could try some EDDHA iron chelate for your plants and it will make water darker too.

[Converse]

  Greetings,

 

 Thank you for the kind recommendations...Nick, both George and Vlad are right about the redworms for your system.  Eisenia fetida are what work the best. Of all the species of redworms,  they are the most easily adaptable to a wide range of pH, temperatures, and feed inputs. They have a very high rate of reproduction and consumption rate. They do not have a wandering habit either, so they will stay put in your AP beds. 

  You can get these redworms from a variety of places.  I can supply them to you if you'd like.  I can ship anywhere in the USA except for Hawaii..  Send me a private message if you'd like.  I will answer your redworm/AP related questions even if you do not wish to get the redworms from me.  I am glad to help out a fellow AP enthusiast!

- Converse