Ammonia Removers

Elevated ammonia is a problem that always should be addressed promptly. Failure to do so can result in fish death or damage to their health. Every new aquarium will go through a process sometimes referred to as the break-in cycle. During that time, biological colonies that convert harmful toxins, quickly begin growing. However, until those colonies grow sufficiently to convert of all the ammonia in the tank, the fish are at risk.

During that time, it is critical that water tests be performed regularly to determine the level of ammonia in the tank. If the ammonia reaches dangerous levels, steps must be taken to quickly reduce it. Water changes will help, but if the ammonia is extremely high, an ammonia binder should be used to bring ammonia down. Ammonia binders are available in a liquid form, or in the form of filtration media. For rapid reduction of critically high ammonia, use a liquid binder. Filter media form is useful when levels are elevated, but not immediately critical.

A newly set up aquarium is not the only situation in which ammonia can become elevated. If fish die and are not promptly removed, or the filter fails for a period of time, or if the tank is not maintained well, ammonia levels can rise. Regular water testing will help detect ammonia spikes. Anytime something happens, such as a prolonged power outage, or sudden fish death, I recommend testing for ammonia immediately, then again several days later. If ammonia is detected, continue testing daily until the ammonia drops. If the ammonia rises to potentially harmful levels, take action to lower it.