Cloudy water makes people panic because it looks like the tank is “going bad.” But cloudiness can come from different causes, and each one needs a different response. The worst move is overreacting with big deep cleans that wipe out beneficial bacteria. The best move is to identify what type of cloudiness you’re seeing and fix the root cause with a calm, safe approach.
1) Bacterial bloom (milky white haze)
Common in new tanks or after overfeeding. The fix is patience, stable filtration, and lighter feeding. Avoid cleaning the filter aggressively.
2) Suspended dust (after substrate changes)
Often appears after re-scaping or adding new sand. Use fine filtration and let it settle. Avoid stirring the bottom repeatedly.
3) Green water (pea soup)
This is usually too much light plus nutrients. Reduce photoperiod, block direct sunlight, and stabilise feeding. Water changes help but light control is key.
4) Overfeeding / dissolved waste
Cloudiness with a smell often means excess food and waste. Reduce feeding, vacuum debris zones, and return to consistent changes.
5) Filter flow issues
If flow slows, debris stays suspended longer. Check for clogged sponges, blocked intakes, or media packed too tight. Clean gently in old tank water.
Cloudy water is fixable and often temporary. When you avoid harsh interventions and focus on steady routine, guppy tanks usually clear up and become stable again.
