The Nitrogen Cycle Explained
The nitrogen cycle is the biological process that keeps your aquarium water safe for fish.
Why it matters
Fish waste and uneaten food produce ammonia, which is toxic. Beneficial bacteria convert ammonia into nitrite, then into nitrate, a much less harmful compound that is removed with regular water changes.
The three stages
- Ammonia is produced by fish waste and decaying matter.
- Nitrite is produced by bacteria that consume ammonia.
- Nitrate is produced by bacteria that consume nitrite.
Cycling a new tank
Run the tank for several weeks before adding fish, testing water weekly until ammonia and nitrite both read zero.