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Biological filtration drives every successful home aquarium. Established colonies of beneficial bacteria are the workhorses for efficient biological filtration. In mature systems, these colonies are relatively hardy; however, there are certain factors that affect bacterial population including: |
What
conditions
do beneficial
bacteria need
for proper
growth? |
A: Your aquarium's beneficial bacteria depend on a constant food source of ammonia (from fish or food waste) or nitrite (from the nitrogen cycle), a rich supply of oxygen, and water temperatures above 55°F. |
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CHLORINE & CHLORAMINE These common tap water disinfectants can severely compromise beneficial bacterial colonies. Use our
Chlorine Neutralizer with each top off or water change to make tap water safe for aquarium use.
MEDICATIONS Use with care as many broad-spectrum
fish medications can also kill good bacteria while they target bacteria-based diseases.
OXYGEN LEVEL Beneficial, nitrifying bacteria are aerobic and require oxygen to process nitrogen compounds. To ensure effective biological filtration, use
Bubble Disks to increase oxygen levels with an aesthetic flair.
OVER CLEANING Aggressive gravel cleaning can physically reduce bacterial populations. Limit the loss of beneficial bacteria with the careful use of the
Aqueon Aquarium Water Changer. Clean only a portion of aquarium gravel during routine water changes.
FOOD/FISH LEVELS
Over-feeding fish or adding too many fish can tax existing bacterial populations. A sudden increase in organic waste in the water can trigger a brief ammonia spike or a "mini cycle" as beneficial bacteria process excess waste.
To help ensure a healthy colony of beneficial bacteria, use our
Live Nitrifying Bacteria. It is great for use with new setups, existing aquariums, after cleaning, water changes, after medication, or any time you need to fortify biological filtration.
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