Algae Control

[Danny G]

Hi guys, I have BDT in a kiddy pool in my backyard. It is half full of water and only gets about 4 to 5 hours of sunlight.
I made a Youtube filter, 5 gallon bucket with sponges inside.
I get quite a bit of Algae within 3 weeks after cleaning out the pool.
Is this normal?
Is there any way I can control the Algae growth?

Thank you

 

[Tom]

Algae needs nutrients to grow and thrive. Your turtle is continuously pooping nutrients into the water. The biological filtration taking place in your sponges converts the poop into plant food, nitrates. To control the algae, remove its food source by doing frequent large water changes.

 

[Danny G]

Thank you Tom

Will it help if I change the sponges to another type of filtration substance?

Will adding water plants help?

 

[Tom]

Thank you Tom

Will it help if I change the sponges to another type of filtration substance?

Will adding water plants help?

Plants can help by competing with the algae for nutrients and providing shade. The sponges are not part of the problem.

 

[Danny G]

I have to try something, being in Socal, I feel a little uneasy about water use.