glass covering my tank

[jennsredragon]

will glass covering my tank deplete the amount of good light my plants are needing?...also, my tank is cycled, my plants were just added. however, my tank is still cloudy and algae(the green hairy kind) is already making an appearence. this doesn't seem to be right. help!

 

[BigJim]

If you keep the glass clean, it should only block a minimal amount of light.

Algae is a sign of nutrient imbalance or excess nutrients. Light counts as a nutrient, so don't leave your light on for more than 8-12 hours a day. Remove as much algae as possible. A healthy plant will outcompete algae for nutrients if the nutrient levels are fairly balanced.