Nitrifying Bacteria – Breaking Down Aquarium Waste
Nitrifying bacteria are responsible for breaking down organic waste in the aquarium. This beneficial bacteria is needed for a healthy aquatic environment.
Nitrifying bacteria are responsible for breaking down organic waste in the aquarium. This beneficial bacteria is needed for a healthy aquatic environment.
The nitrogen cycle is the natural process, during which beneficial bacteria break down dissolved organic waste inside the aquarium.
While nitrates can’t be avoided entirely in the aquarium, there are steps the fish keeper can take to minimize how much nitrate is produced.
How can you maintain a crystal clear aquarium? Ok, so maybe it’s not a secret, but what we know and don’t know determines the success or failure of our aquarium.
Cyanobacteria are a pretty common occurrence in saltwater and reef aquariums. An outbreak is often experienced within the first year of the tank’s life.
Nitrites are a natural part of the aquarium nitrogen cycle. Nitrite is highly toxic for fish and levels must be kept undetectable at all times. Nitrite can quickly become lethal for fish.
Biological filtration is another term used to describe the aquarium nitrogen cycle. It’s the process of beneficial bacteria breaking down organic waste in the water.
Ammonia is a toxic by-product of the aquarium nitrogen cycle. It’s the first nutrient produced by nitrifying bacteria. Ammonia should never be detectable in an established aquarium.
Aquarium nitrate is the final by-product of the nitrogen cycle. It’s the least toxic nutrient, however it must be regularly removed to avoid algae outbreaks.