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Freshwater Aquarium/Nitrate in Aquarium
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Question
QUESTION: Hi Nathan,
I have 3 Guppies in a 5 gallon tank. Right now, the tank has been running for two months, and is now fully cycled. My tests show 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, and 10ppm nitrate.
Is the nitrate too high? If so, how do I remove it? Thanks for your help.
ANSWER: Hi Elenor,
Your Nitrate levels are fine. Congratulations on the newly cycled tank! In general, nitrate readings of less than 20 ppm are accepted by most freshwater tropical fish, like your guppies. Unlike ammonia and nitrite, nitrate has no natural bacteria that can 'remove' it. So, nitrate will eventually build up into toxic levels. What do we do? Partial water changes. Partial water changes will remove and dilute some of the nitrate.
I recommend that you change one gallon of water out of your tank per week. A gravel vacuuming can be done once every two weeks.
Good Luck, and Happy Fishkeeping!
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: Thanks for your answer! I'm also interested in keeping one or two live freshwater plants. I noticed that you were also an expert in the plant category, so what plants would you recommend? I want a hardy plant or two, and I only have a moderately bright incandescent light that came with the kit.
Hi Elenor,
I'd recommend the Java Fern for your aquarium. It thrives in lower light conditions, which is perfect for your aquarium! (Since incandescent lights are among the dimmest and cheapest.) It prefers low-medium lighting, and is extremely hardy, adapting to a variety of conditions. It should be anchored to a small rock or piece of driftwood using a string or rubber band. After a month, the roots will grow and 'fuse' into the base, whatever that may be. You can then remove the string. Do NOT bury the roots in the gravel.
Trim off any dead or dying leaves, and new ones will grow.
Good Luck, and Happy Fishkeeping!
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Answers by Expert:
Nathan
Expertise
I can answer all questions related to freshwater aquariums. If I am not available because I am maxed out, you can find me on the Aquarium Plants category. Fish care, fish behavior, feeding, and diseases are my specialty. To be specific, I am most familiar (though I am familiar with most species) with Livebearers, Tetras, Barbs, Danios, Loaches, Goldfish, Angelfish (freshwater), Catfish (corydoras, plecos, etc.), Bettas, shrimp, and even snails. I can help out with new tank setups, the cycling process (nitrogen cycle), acclimation of fish, and general care. I can also answer questions regarding many species of freshwater plants, including fish compatibility with plants. Additionally, I can lend a hand when it comes to aquarium support equipment questions, such as those regarding filters, heaters, lighting, and thermometers. Questions about aquarium water conditioners and products are also accepted. I will try to answer your question to the best of my abilities, and if I do not know an answer, I will do my best to find out. I do not have much experience in saltwater aquariums, or pressurized CO2 systems, so I cannot answer any such questions. Best wishes, and good luck to your fish!
Experience
I have kept freshwater fish tanks for many years, and I am experienced with a variety of different freshwater species and invertebrates, such as Tetras, Barbs, Loaches, Danios, Livebearers, Cichlids, Goldfish, Bettas, Catfish, Shrimp, and Snails. I have helped people set up aquariums, and I am very familiar with aquarium products and equipment. I have also bred many fish, and I always care for my fish in the best way possible.
What makes a good home for tropical fish? Well, all tropical fish, like guppies and Bettas, require filters, heaters, and a good-sized tank. Healthy fish should be actively swimming and feeding, with defined fins and clear eyes. Take a random check of some of your fish daily, to make sure they're thriving!
Education/Credentials
I own an extensive collection of aquarium-related books and magazines, and have read all about, and I am experienced in, many aspects of humane and proper fishkeeping. Through these books and other articles, from reliable internet sources, and from personal experience with fish, I have a thorough knowledge of freshwater aquariums, fish, and freshwater plant species.
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