The nitrogen compounds from organic waste

The decomposition of organic nitrogen compounds found in fish excrement, dead parts of plants, excess food, etc. is divided into several stages.

1. Ammonia (NH₃) and ammonium (NH₄) develop from organic waste. The water plants absorb ammonium as a nitrogen fertilizer. Ammonia is highly toxic. The transformation of ammonia to ammonium is dependent on the pH. Ammonium develops with low pH, ammonia with high pH. In view of this, there is no possibility of ammonia poisoning in aquariums with a low pH.
2. Nitrite (NO₂), which is toxic for fish, develops from ammonium/ammonia.
3. Nitrite (NO₂)is converted into nitrate (NO₃), which is only toxic in high concentrations. The water plants absorb the nitrate as a nutrient.

These decomposition stages are carried out by micro-organisms, which form a complex unity of life with other micro-organisms in the filter and substrate of the aquarium. Increased ammonia/ammonium or nitrite indicates that the biological balance in the aquarium or pond has been disturbed. In this case, part of the water should be replaced, and the reason for the disturbance identified. To create and keep an effective cullture of micro-organisms we recommend using AQUAVITAL BACTOSPRINT.

Ammonium (NH₄) is generally non-toxic. Ammonia (NH₃), which is present at higher pH levels, can harm fish starting at 0.075 ppm. An ammonia level of 0.2 ppm or higher is dangerous. If ammonia levels are elevated, corrective measures should be taken. In this case, perform a partial water change and investigate the causes. By adding AQUAVITAL BACTOSPRINT, you can establish a robust culture of microorganisms.

Elevated nitrite or nitrate levels indicate that the biological balance is disrupted. Nitrite is toxic to fish even in low concentrations. The nitrite level should remain below 0.1 ppm at all times. If the nitrite level exceeds 0.2 ppm, corrective measures should be taken. In this case, perform a partial water change and investigate the causes. By adding AQUAVITAL BACTOSPRINT, you can establish a robust culture of microorganisms.

Nitrite, even in low concentrations, is toxic for ornamental fish. There should be no nitrite in the water. If you test a high nitrite level, adjustments will have to be carried out immediately. Part of the water must be changed and AQUAVITAL BACTOSPRINT should be added to the water.

The nitrate content should generally not exceed 25 ppm. If levels exceed 100 ppm, immediate action (partial water change with nitrate-free water) is necessary. By adding AQUAVITAL BACTOSPRINT, you can establish a robust culture of microorganisms. Aquatic plants absorb nitrates as nutrients. Lush plant growth therefore prevents excessive nitrate levels.