How to Lower Ammonia in a Tank

The development of ammonia in the water of an aquarium is a natural occurrence. The production of waste by the tank's marine inhabitants, although usually removed by the tank's filtration system, leaves a residual amount in the water. High amounts of ammonia can be present in an aquarium due to many factors, including the decaying of a dead fish or plant or too much food being left in the tank. Lowering the ammonia level in a fish tank can be completed in several different ways.

Things You'll Need

  • Aquarium gravel vacuum
  • Chemical ammonia remover
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Instructions

    • 1

      Check the aquarium thoroughly to see if there is anything that has died in there, such as a fish or plant, as the decaying process will increase the ammonia level in the water. Remove any unhealthy plants from the tank.

    • 2

      Use an aquarium gravel vacuum to remove any uneaten food or other debris that has not been caught by your filtration system. Check your filter inserts and rinse them if they are dirty. Feed your fish less food (use an amount that equals the amount that they can eat in a minute's time) if you find bits of food on the bottom of the tank.

    • 3

      Perform a water change in the aquarium. Replace up to 30 percent of the current tank water with conditioned water that has been brought to the same temperature as the water already in the aquarium to create less stress on the aquarium's inhabitants.

    • 4

      Use a chemical ammonia remover designed for your type of aquarium (freshwater or saltwater). Add a small amount at a time, so as to not cause additional stress to your marine life. Test the water with an ammonia test kit frequently until the ammonia level drops to below 2 parts per million.