Understanding the Nitrogen Cycle

There is something magically calming about a glass box filled with water that is full of life. Is it the tiny bubbles that rise to the surface and gently pop or the gentle sway of the underwater plants that comforts us? Maybe its the angelic way the fish swim that mesmerizes us? Regardless of what it is that draws one to the hobby, there is something we all have in common as keepers of this glass box. The task of keeping all of its occupants alive and thriving! This is where understanding the nitrogen cycle comes in and plays a large role in the survival of your entire tank.

All to often, and sometimes at the advise of local fish store employees, the beginner fish keeper will purchase a tank and stock it with beautiful fish right away. Then after about 3-5 days, they begin to experience cloudy water and a massive die off of live stock! This is mostly due to the fact that the tank was not properly cycled and the nitrogen cycle has not been completed.

What is the nitrogen cycle and how does it play a role in survival of your aquatic pets? The nitrogen cycle is the process in which fish food and waste is broken down to create a beneficial bacteria that is crucial to all life in any size body of water. The beneficial bacteria then goes on to help remove toxins in the water such as ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates.

How the Nitrogen Cycle Works

1. Fish food is introduced to your tank and then either consumed by your fish or left on the tank floor.

2. This food and waste is broken down into ammonia (NH) which is extremely toxic to all life in your aquarium.

3. After ammonia is present, a nitrifying bacteria called nitrosomonas will develop and oxidize the ammonia and help to eliminate it.

4. The oxidation of the ammonia will create a by product called nitrites. These nitrites, like ammonia, are extremely toxic to your live stock.

5. After nitrite levels rise, a second nitrifying bacteria called nitrobacter will develop and convert the nitrites into nitrates. Nitrates are not as toxic as ammonia or nitrites but can be extremely harmful if levels get too high.

6. When nitrate levels rise higher than approximately 20ppm (5ppm-20ppm being ideal) the only way to remove these toxins from your aquarium is by regular water changes and general maintenance of your tank. Aquatic plants will also help to reduce the nitrate levels in the water by turning the nitrates into food.

Making sure your aquarium is cycled BEFORE adding your fish is a very important step to ensure that your live stock has the best environment in which to thrive. If your aquarium is not properly cycled your fish will be subjected to high ammonia levels that will cause issues such as ammonia burn, lowered immune systems, and disease. A properly cared for and cycled tank will bring much joy to you and its occupants for many years to come.

>>>Disclaimer: This blog is written based upon my own personal experiences. There are different ways to apply this technique. This is what works for me. Do your research before diving in based on one persons opinions and experiences.