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Is brown algae on goldfish tank decor harmful to my goldfish?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Fish | Gold Fish

I have a decoration in my tank with my goldfish I am starting to get worried about the fishes health since I started to notice a brown substance taking over the leaves of the fake tree decoration. I have tried washing it off but It won’t come off. Should I get rid of the decoration or should I let it be.

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Todd Cecil

Veterinarian

Published on February 19th, 2019

Thanks for reaching out about Corn and including photos. It appears as if this is a type of algae. Try washing in hot water. Overgrowth of algae can potentially cause some problems and foul water quality. Algal overgrowths often associated with too much sunlight. Good luck.

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