To test the nitrate level of your aquarium

Food waste, fish waste and other nitrogen-containing organic materials are degraded by bacteria during the nitrogen cycle to ammonium, which then becomes toxic nitrite. They are then converted into low concentrations of harmless nitrates by other helpful bacteria.

In a well-functioning pond or aquarium, the nitrite content should be below 0.3 mg/l. Regular checks are essential to prevent poisoning during the start-up phase of aquariums and ponds, i.e. when the nitrifying bacteria are not yet fully developed. Keep out of reach of children.

The box contains a reagent for 40 tests, a measuring cylinder, a colored scale and instructions for use.

What is the recommended value for the nitrate level?

For fresh water, the nitrate rate must be 50 mg/L and 0 mg/L for sea water.