I keep my tank spotless. Why does the gravel keep turning black??

Question

I do a partial water change and thoroughly vacuume the gravel every three days. Bit by bit pieces of gravel are turning black. I try to turn the gravel and the tank is well airated.

Is this normal?

Answer 1

the problem could be if you don't have a filter in the tank then the bacteria in the water is building up on the stones even though you clean it regularly

Answer 2

It sounds as if there is a source of Sulphates in the tank. This could either come from your water source or from anaerobic areas in the tank.(Anaerobic bacteria produce sulphur related compounds.) Your maintenance regime would seem to rule out the latter scenario,so look for sulphur compounds in your tap water.

Try de-chlorinating a sample of your tap water (about a gallon) and let it stand for a few days. Check frequently for a faint "rotten egg" sort of odor. If you find a positive in this test try de-chlorinating your water in a separate container,using something like Tetra "Aqua-safe", and letting it stand for a few days before adding it to the tank. (A small,cheap circulating pump might help here.)

Answer 3

Its a form of algea that is growing in your tank, you can go to your local feed store's usually and tell them about it, and there is something you can add to your filters to help clean it up. Or you can take some of the gravel, and soak it in bleach, rinse off very good, and let sit out of tank for 3 days, it really helps clean all that up.

Answer 4

p**p.

Answer 5

It might not be getting enough light, or too much light. I cant think of anything that would do that other than algae.

Answer 6

Go to pets smart and tell them about it then get new Gravel.