Nitrogen Cycle in Saltwater Aquariums

June 17, 2008 · Filed Under Nitrogen Cycle 

It has many names Nitrogen cycle, cycling, nitrification, biological cycle, startup cycle, break-in cycle – its what all aquariums need to undergo this process. Basically the nitrogen cycle is when beneficial bacteria are established in your saltwater aquarium.

We will discuss and learn how it works, how long it will take to get the cycle completed, ways you can do to cycle the saltwater aquarium and the important function the nitrogen process plays in keeping your saltwater aquarium working properly.

The process of the nitrogen cycle can take from 2 weeks or longer, there is no exact time frame as each aquarium set up is different.

Blue Tang

Factors that determine where you are in the process are based on how many fish or other livestock, and organic matter you have in your aquarium.

The three components that are involved are ammonia, nitrite and nitrate. Test your water often during the process and log your readings. This will tell you what phase the aquarium is in.

The best way to monitor the nitrogen cycle process is by usng a saltwater test kit that will test the three components involve in the process.

Text and Photo Source: Saltwater Aquarium Online Guide

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    Comments

    3 Responses to “Nitrogen Cycle in Saltwater Aquariums”

    1. Saltwater Aquarium Water Testing | Saltwater Aquarium Guide on June 25th, 2008 6:05 pm

      [...] the ammonia, nitrite or nitrate is too high, conduct water change. see how the saltwater aquarium nitrogen cycle works to understand [...]

    2. ph and acid in saltwater aquarium | Saltwater Aquarium Guide on July 5th, 2008 5:31 pm

      [...] dioxide and fish waste. To much will cause the waters pH to drop. A quick fact is that during nitrogen cycle, acid is produced and alters the pH in your saltwater aquarium. It is always good to have a pH test [...]

    3. Simon’s blog » Saltwater Aquarium Algae on July 30th, 2008 2:14 pm

      [...] Aquarium lighting and nitrate from the nitrogen cycle let them grow, during this cycle at the start of your aquarium set up the algae will [...]

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