What are Nitrites?

Nitrite is a by-product produced by the nitrifying bacteria (Nitrosomonas bacteria) through the consumption of ammonia. The bacteria colony convert the deadly ammonia to a less deadly, but still toxic form of nitrite. Within a healthy aquarium, there really should be no measurable trace of nitrite, as the biological filtration system will convert any nitrite into the far less toxic compound: nitrate.

Like ammonia, nitrite is commonly found in establishing/uncycled aquariums. Nitrite attacks fish population by breaking down red blood cells, inhibiting the ability to transport oxygen. In severe cases of nitrite poisoning, the fish blood is turned into a brownish colour and is apparent in the colouration of the gills.

Measures can be taken to minimize the harm to fish during the cycling process:

• fishless cylcing through the use of pure ammonia
• seeding aquarium with gravel and/or filter media from established aquariums
• transfer of filter from an established aquarium
• close monitoring of water parameters and frequent initial water changes

Testing for nitrite should be done frequently in a new tank setup (as often as twice daily, coupled with water changes, if nitrite readings are dangerously high). In an established aquarium, nitrite testing can be done on a bi-weekly or monthly basis, depending upon the experience of the aquariast and the age of the aquarium.

Optimum level of Nitrites: 0 ppm
Removal: Biological Filtration (Nitrifying bacteria conversion to Nitrate), Water Changes