PerfectDepth
Aquarium Advice FINatic
- Joined
- Jul 9, 2013
- Messages
- 607
I actually asked just about that same question. The answer I got seemed reasonable and followed along with most I was able to read on the topic as well as what I've seen in my own tanks
First is that algae doesn't start photosynthesis as quickly as plants do. It takes them longer to start the process and this is the primary reason why longer lighting times cause algae growth
Next is the growth of algae on plants. Most plants emit a mild algaecide. When the plants are healthy they prevent the algae growth on them, however when they aren't growing they aren't warding off the algae growth. This necessitates proper CO2 and Light.
There's more to it I'm sure, but that would have to be a question posed to Tom Barr for a proper answer.
Here, starting at post #14, Tom Barr actually debunks the idea of allelopathic chemicals having any significant algae-suppressing effect. How do plants suppress algae growth
It's a rather interesting discussion.