Phosphates
Long-Term Effects of High Nitrate Levels
- Chronic Stress in Fish
- Reproduction Issues
- Greater susceptibility to disease
- In corals: inhibits calcification and promotes algae growth
- In shrimp: very sensitive
Recommended Values
| Type of aquarium | Recommended maximum NO3 level |
|---|---|
| Coral reef | <5 ppm |
| Shrimp | <10 ppm |
| Freshwater planted tank | <20 ppm |
| General Freshwater | <40 ppm |
| Africans | <40 ppm |
How to Reduce Nitrate Levels
- Regular water changes (primary method)
- Live plants (which absorb NO3 as a nutrient)
- Shelter with macroalgae (in marine aquariums)
- Denitrification resins
- Anoxic Zones in the Filter (Denitrifying Bacteria — Advanced)
- Reduce the fish load and feeding
Temperature
Ranges by Aquarium Type
| Type | Temperature |
|---|---|
| Cold Water (Goldfish, Koi) | 10 – 22°C |
| Subtropical (Gambusia, Danio) | 18 – 25°C |
| General Tropical | 24 – 28°C |
| Discus / Altum | 28 – 32°C |
| Reef fish | 24 – 26°C |
| Neocaridina Shrimp | 18 – 24°C |
| Caridina Shrimp | 22 – 26°C |
Temperature Hazards
- Too high: Decreased dissolved oxygen, heat stress, filter bacteria mortality
- Too low: Lethargy, weakened immune system, respiratory problems
- Sudden changes: A temperature change of more than 2°C in a few hours → thermal shock → death