What is Ammonia?
Ammonia is a toxic waste that is excreted by fish or caused by decomposing plant matter and uneaten fish food. At low levels, Ammonia is stressful for most fish and other inhabitants -- at higher levels, it is deadly. Fortunately, naturally occurring bacteria is present in most established systems that converts this Ammonia to Nitrite and in turn, to the less toxic Nitrate. This process is known as the "Nitrogen cycle".
Why is it important to know your Ammonia level?
This beneficial bacterium is present in established aquarium and pond filters but it takes time for it to reach sufficient levels to handle the wastes that are produced. Cleaning or replacing your filter cartridges and other filter material or using some medications can disrupt this biological process. Adding additional fish and excessive feeding can also overwhelm our filters and result in higher Ammonia levels too. Testing for Ammonia will tell you if your system is able to handle the biological load or if your fish are at risk. Testing your water is fairly simple and there are a number of inexpensive test kits and monitoring devices available. Ideally your Ammonia should be ZERO
Correct Ammonia levels with Liquid Clear
Test for all problematic areas with our Master Test Kit
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