Blanket weed is a generic name for all of the many types of filamentious algae. Sometimes it has the appearance of fine wispy hair growing off the side of the pool, other times it forms a thick, choking candy floss type mass that can choke plants or float at the water surface.
As with green water causing algae, blanket weed thrives in full sun and nutrient rich, preferably alkaline water.
Blanket weed isn't harmful in itself, infact it will actually improve the water quality for the fish in the same way as other plants. It is, however, unsightly and in some cases can choke plants. Plants will curb the growth of blanket weed, 50-70% surface coverage will make a big difference, and dont forget to establish the recommended ammount of submerged plants, which will compete with the algae for nutrients, too many fish and any nutrients leaching into the pool will make the situation worse. If all else fails then reach for the bottle!
