Increased nitrite in QT

Myka · #1 09-08-2013, 05:39 PM

The Ammonia Alerts works really well, but don't rely on them for an actual reading. I've found the measurements they show are often 1/10th of the actual amount of ammonia in the water. Best practice is to dose an ammonia detoxifier as soon as you see ANY color change on the alert.

Quote:

Originally Posted by George

I wouldn't worry about nitrite or nitrate in a fish only QT. Nitrite/Nitrate are not toxic to marine fish unless the level is very high(>100ppm).

This is correct. Nitrite is not toxic in saltwater like it is in freshwater = even for (most) invertebrates.

You currently have enough bacteria that convert ammonia to nitrite, but the bacteria that convert nitrite to nitrate are not abundant enough. Just keep monitoring ammonia.

DigitalWeight · #2 09-08-2013, 07:01 PM

Here is a good article on nitrite in a reef:

http://www.reefkeeping.com/issues/2005-06/rhf/

As has been said, nitrite is not as toxic as in fresh. I am quarantining right now (first time for me) and have been watching ammonia real close. Nitrite and Nitrate are higher in my qt tank - seems to be going ok so far.