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Importance of Nitrate Removal in Ponds and Water Gardens
The nitrification process, or the nitrogen cycle, plays a crucial role in creating a healthy pond. This natural process converts toxic nitrogen waste products into less harmful compounds. During nitrification, oxygen-loving bacteria break down nitrogen waste products (ammonia and nitrite) and convert them into the relatively harmless by-product, nitrate. In small quantities nitrate is no longer toxic to fish and is basically a fertilizer. Pond plants, including algae, take nourishment from the nitrate and naturally reduce nitrate levels in pond water.
While low levels of nitrate support healthy plant growth, excessive levels can quickly diminish pond water quality and clarity. High levels of nitrate affect pond fish and invertebrate health as well as fuel aggressive algae growth. If your pond is experiencing high nitrate levels, a partial water change is one of most simple and effective way to reduce nitrate levels. After a water change, take an active role in keeping the nitrate levels low simply by adding more live pond plants or utilizing nitrate removing filter media.
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