What is the most efficient algae eater?

Question

Thanks for your answers. =]

Answer 1

That depends on the algae you're dealing with.  For diatoms, a Bristlenose Pleco is amazing.  If you've got hair algae, something like Cherry Barbs, Mollies, or a Flagfish would be ideal, though Otos work too.  If you've got black hair algae, the best advice I can give you is to keep up on your water changes and start dipping decorations in bleach (live plants need specific concentrations and durations).

Answer 2

Algae eaters are really gross. They p**p all over the place. I would say they make as much mess as they clean up.

Answer 3

A large placostumes

Answer 4

Consider a  critter like a couple of ghost or algae shrimps. Generally the "algae eating" fish like plecos or chinese algae eaters do eat algae while young. However it's only specific types and they quickly, very quickly grow out of eating algae and go on to eating your fish!  Chinese algae eaters especially have been known to strip the scales from their tankmates overnight. Also plecos are heavy poopers. Lots of waste means more water changes and maintenance on your tank. Most of them will need you to provide other kinds of foods as well or will quickly starve in a tank.

Answer 5

Otocinclos's do an amazing job for their size. I would get oto or a pleco probably.