Reducing ammonia and nitrite levels...
Ammonia is the first stage and nitrite is the second stage of the nitrogen cycle. They are normally present in a new
aquarium because there are not enough beneficial bacteria established to break down the fish waste by-products.
- If ammonia is 4 ppm or higher and/or nitrite is 2 ppm or higher, make up to a 50% water change with a gravel
siphon, removing excess debris from the gravel. Add Jack's Complete Water Conditioner and aquarium salt
to the replacement water (water must be the same temperature as the aquarium water).
- Change carbon, add ammonia remover and increase aeration.
- Add Bio-Boost or other products that aid in speeding up the nitrogen cycle.
- Since overcrowding and overfeeding are major causes of high ammonia, only add recommended amounts of fish and
reduce the amount of food being fed.
- Make sure filtration is adequate for the aquarium.
- Test water daily.
- A 50% water change and addition of Bio-Boost may be repeated every other day until ammonia or nitrite level
is reduced.