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**24-HOUR AMMONIA QUANTIFICATION TEST**
Ammonia Occurrence in the Tank:
Food remnants, fish excretions, plant residues, and dead fish are broken down into ammonia by heterotrophic bacteria, in a process called ammonification. A significant portion of ammonia also originates directly from fish, mainly excreted through the gills. Following this process, ammonia is oxidized by two groups of autotrophic nitrifying bacteria, first to nitrite and then to nitrate. In intact natural environments, there is a complete balance between organisms and generated compounds, allowing this cycle to function perfectly. Since tanks are limited environments, the desired balance does not occur naturally and spontaneously. Intervention is necessary, and this is where monitoring of variables related to water quality, such as ammonia, setting up the tank with an adequate biological filtration system, and maintenance routines such as partial water changes and filter cleaning come into play.
Influence of Ammonia on Fish:
High levels of ammonia cause stress in fish, resulting in decreased immune resistance, damage to gills, and fin destruction. Ammonia interferes with the transfer of oxygen from gills to blood and, in the medium term, causes damage to the gills themselves. Mucous-producing membranes can be destroyed, reducing the external protective slime layer and damaging the intestinal surface.
Toxic Ammonia:
Chemically speaking, ammonia in aquatic environments can exist in two forms, ionized (NH4+) and non-ionized (NH3). The balance between the two forms is primarily determined by pH, and to a lesser extent by temperature. With increasing pH, this balance shifts towards the NH3 form, exponentially increasing its proportion. Only the NH3 form is relevant in terms of toxicity. The risk of poisoning, therefore, increases significantly in tanks with naturally higher pH levels.
Ammonia Care:
NH3 levels below 0.02 ppm are considered safe for fish, while levels above 0.04 ppm require action.
Actions to Take:
If NH3 values above 0.04 ppm (red zone) are detected, immediate bottom siphoning with partial water changes should be done. Also, check and, if necessary, correct the pH of the water to be added to the tank. This water should not have a higher pH than the water in the tank to avoid enhancing toxic ammonia by raising the pH of the mixture. Then, check the functioning of the filtration system and reduce regular feeding for a few days. It is recommended to contact a professional to avoid more serious problems.
Preventive Measures against High Ammonia Levels:
- Do not exceed the recommended fish population;
- Be careful with the amount of food provided, avoiding leftovers;
- Regularly monitor and maintain the filtration system;
- Periodically perform partial water changes and clean the filters.
Number of tests: 75 tests.
If you have any questions about the product, we will be happy to assist you.
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: (11) 2021-2372.
**Warranty**
Factory warranty against manufacturing defects, excluding misuse or installation.
Images are for illustrative purposes only and may not represent reality.
