What is the best way to remove algae build-up from my artificial aquarium plants?

There are so many shapes, styles and sizes to choose from; this may require some extra shopping around on your part. I am more than happy to send you a few links to get your search started.

http://www.aquariumguys.com/driftwood-decorations.html

http://www.thatpetplace.com/aquarium-supplies/artificial-rocks-wood-for-aquariums#!artificial-rocks-wood-for-aquariums

http://www.petmountain.com/category/542/1/artificial-wood-vines.html

I have never done this myself; however I found you a great video on YouTube about this subject. I found it to be very interesting, hope you too find it helpful.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vj-jvtlU6VU

Although silk plants look more natural than plastic varieties, there are some types that can appear quite natural inside a tank. Take for instance an artificial Ludwigia plant, or a hygrophila/cabomba plant. These are all great examples of artificial plants that look great in home aquariums.

I will attach some links so that you can easily find more about these plants below.

http://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?pcatid=18480

http://www.arcatapet.com/item.cfm?cat=7623

http://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?pcatid=19771

As a matter of fact, yes; there are 2 popular breeds that will do just this. They are the Bristle nose catfish and the red tailed black shark.

This can be a difficult process. Most often, the base of the plants are buried underneath the gravel/substrate. If you have an aquarium vacuum you can use it to help you pull out the plant from its base. If you do not have any tools to help you, your hand will have to do. Make sure to grab the plant from its base and pull gently.

I recommend placing them in a strainer and running them under warm water. Follow this up by taking an old toothbrush and cleaning the leaves.

PetSmart carries a great selection of colorful aquarium decorations. I will attach a few links here for you that I think are worth checking out.

http://www.petsmart.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3054541

http://www.petsmart.com/product/index.jsp?productId=4004383

http://www.petsmart.com/product/index.jsp?productId=10939501

There are several disadvantages; in fact the only advantage I can think of is that they are easy to maintain. Real plants help fish survive in many ways, leading to the reasons why artificial plants are at a disadvantage.

• Real plants can act as a source of food for your fish

• Fake plants cannot keep your tanks carbon dioxide/nitrate levels low

• Real plants fend off algae growth

It sounds to me like you have an algae problem. You should make sure the filter isfunctioning and then replace the water in the tank. You should remove the plants from theaquarium and wash them off thoroughly, under warm water, before returning them.