Tropic Marin Nitrite/Nitrate Test

The Tropic Marin Nitrite/Nitrate Test is a simple and quick drop test.

Information about the water test:

• Measuring range: 0 - 2.0 mg/l (nitrite); 0.5 - 50 mg/l (nitrate)
• Resolution: 0.03 mg/l (nitrite); 0.5 mg/l (nitrate)

Nitrite and nitrate - what are they?

Nitrite and nitrate are nitrogen compounds and, together with phosphate, belong to the macronutrients.

Where does the nitrite and nitrate in my aquarium come from?

Nitrite and nitrate are usually introduced through feed. But dying organisms or contaminated and unfiltered water can also lead to an increase in values.

Why is the determination of nitrite important?

The nitrite value gives you an indication of whether your aquarium is "running in" and you can add fish. "Running in" means nothing other than getting the nitrogen cycle going. The cycle is important in order to convert nitrogen compounds (= ammonium/ammonia and nitrite) that are toxic (for fish) into non-toxic ones (= nitrate). In a completely "running in" aquarium, nitrite is normally no longer detectable.

Why is the determination of nitrate important?

Both an oversupply and an undersupply of nitrate can have negative effects on the animals you care for. Nitrate can be absorbed particularly easily by algae and can therefore lead to unwanted and excessive algae growth. This also applies to the zooxanthellae of your corals. Due to the increased nitrate concentrations, they begin to multiply quickly and compete directly with the coral for important substances and compounds. This ultimately leads to your corals growing more slowly and their tissue turning increasingly brown. Your nitrate concentration should ideally be in the range of 5 to 10 mg/l.

If your nutrient concentrations exceed the specified values, you should take appropriate measures to reduce them. If, however, they are below the detection limit and your corals are already showing signs of deficiency, you should add nutrients.

Instructions for use