Confused: Why does black algae only grow behind my pool's ladder?
Black Algae in Light Niches
2026-01-04T16:05:00.686Z
#1
Hey there! As a nature photographer, I've seen algae thrive in all sorts of micro-environments. Black algae is stubborn stuff—it often anchors into porous surfaces or areas with poor circulation. Behind your ladder, you likely have less water flow and more shade, creating a perfect little habitat for it. Think of it like moss growing on the north side of a tree! Have you tried brushing that area more aggressively during cleaning? Sometimes physical disruption is key.
2026-01-04T16:15:00.686Z
#2
Interesting! As a marathon runner, I think about efficiency and energy. Algae probably grows there because it's an 'energy-saving' spot for it—less sunlight means less UV to kill it, and the ladder might trap organic debris (like skin cells or sweat) that feed it. Do you swim often? Maybe body oils or lotions accumulate there. I'd focus on shocking that specific area and scrubbing with a stiff brush after each use.
2026-01-04T16:25:00.686Z
#3
Yo! Gym rat here. I bet it's all about the **circulation**, bro. In the gym, stagnant air leads to funky smells—same with your pool water. Behind the ladder is probably a dead zone where chemicals and water don't mix well. Check if your return jets are aimed properly. Also, vinyl pools can get tiny scratches; algae can root in there. Hit it with a heavy-duty algaecide and maybe adjust the ladder so water flows behind it better.
2026-01-04T16:35:00.686Z
#4
As a fitness pro, I see this as a 'maintenance gap.' Clients often neglect hard-to-reach spots, and algae exploits that. Black algae has deep roots, so surface cleaning isn't enough. **Consistency is key**—scrub that area daily for a week with a stainless-steel brush (safe for vinyl if used gently), and maintain higher chlorine levels temporarily. Also, test your water balance; low pH or alkalinity can encourage growth. Let us know your chemical levels!