The algae grows fast, as well, and can become very unsightly. Removal of green hair algae is not an easy process, but prevention is key to keeping it from coming back.

Green algae: Some people call this growth hair, thread, or spot algae. It is good algae that every tank will experience at some point. As long as you take care of your tank, it will not overgrow.

"Filamentous green algae looks like green hair in the water," said LaLiberte. "It's really long; it's sort of slippery feeling." RELATED I UW-Oshkosh receives $1.6 million to study algae in Lake ...

While chlorine plays a role in making your hair appear green, there’s actually another main culprit ... (CuSO₄), a compound added to swimming pools to prevent the growth of algae.