Oil Layer on Water

[Purpledreams48]

I recently just added 10 RCS to my cycled tank on Friday. I noticed a thin layer of oil developed on the surface of the water the next day after I put in new filter media. I've tried using paper towel to get it out, a partial water change, and changing the filter cartridge. It's a planted 2.5 gallon tank, the shrimp are happy and a couple molted already. Is there anything I can do to get rid of the oil?

 

[goatnad]

the oil layer is actually a protein layer from the processes of an aquarium. you can get rid of it by having better surface movement or by using a surface skimmer.

 

[JackBinimbul]

That's biofilm! It's a normal process. You can skim it off with a cup.

 

[Purpledreams48]

That's biofilm! It's a normal process. You can skim it off with a cup.

Thanks! Is it dangerous if it builds up?

 

[JackBinimbul]

Yes and no. Biofilm on your substrate, decor, etc is actually beneficial to many animals. Especially shrimp. Surface biofilm, however, can inhibit oxygenation of the water. It's also a catch-all term for any build up of biological material.

Mike from AquaPros did a pretty good video about biofilms here

 

[Purpledreams48]

Yes and no. Biofilm on your substrate, decor, etc is actually beneficial to many animals. Especially shrimp. Surface biofilm, however, can inhibit oxygenation of the water. It's also a catch-all term for any build up of biological material.

Mike from AquaPros did a pretty good video about biofilms here

Okay thanks. I'll try using the cup to remove it

 

[King Fisher]

You could try running an airstone.

 

[Purpledreams48]

You could try running an airstone.

I don't have an airstone or the money right now to buy one

 

[coralbandit]

You can rest a sheet of paper on the water and draw it off removing much of the proteins .Old school like me !

 

[King Fisher]

Great idea Bandit!! Never thought of that.

Later on when you got the money you can get a little all in one pump and airstone like this.....

Uniclife Aquarium Adjustable Air Pump Single 2 L/min 2.5 W Fish Tank Oxygen Pump with Air Tube Valve Stone Accessories https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XS1DCG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_xdYJBb876M4K6

 

[Purpledreams48]

Great idea Bandit!! Never thought of that.

Later on when you got the money you can get a little all in one pump and airstone like this.....

Uniclife Aquarium Adjustable Air Pump Single 2 L/min 2.5 W Fish Tank Oxygen Pump with Air Tube Valve Stone Accessories https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XS1DCG6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_xdYJBb876M4K6

Thank you! I'll try the cup and paper and see what happens. My shrimp are all really happy and I'm enjoying them.

 

[JackBinimbul]

Those are some good sized shrimp!

 

[goatnad]

You could make a diy surface skimmer. What kind of filtration do you use?