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Copyright 1999 AquaChem Publishing by Kevin J. Ruff
The only way to prevent such a tragedy is to keep a constant vigil as to the ammonia levels in your aquarium. This is of absolute importance in a newly setup aquarium. The biological filter (see The Nitrogen Cycle, below) hasnt had time to become established, so ammonia levels elevate quickly. Eventually the ammonia levels fall to normal. This is commonly known as "The Break-In Cycle" or "New Tank Syndrome". Even in an established aquarium, ammonia levels can spike (say from the external biological filter becoming clogged, or from the death and decomposition of a large plant or fish). So regularly monitoring ammonia levels is a must, and immediate remedy of any spikes is equally as important............. |