Products to Remove Ammonia From an Aquarium

Ammonia can be a deadly chemical to your fish if it ever enters or builds up in your aquarium. Poor quality tap water, overpopulation or, more commonly, the death of a fish can cause a spike in the amount of ammonia in your tank. Having too many fish and too much waste can cause a problem, too. A water change and proper filtration can alleviate excess ammonia, but several commercial products can help remove the chemical, as well.

  1. Ammo Chips

    • Ammo Chips are an ammonia-removing resin that serves as a filter medium. You also can find ammonia pillows, which are essentially Ammo Chips sealed in a nylon bag to be placed at the bottom of your tank or within the filter.

    Prime

    • Prime is am aquarium conditioner designed for use with new aquarium water. It removes chlorine and ammonia. Prime is a concentrated, potent liquid solution, so it's important to follow label instructions. Like other ammonia removers, Prime converts ammonia into a non-toxic chemical. It will not, however, provide a permanent solution for ammonia buildup.

    Beneficial Bacteria

    • Beneficial bacteria are the best solution for long-term ammonia removal because they break down ammonia into non-toxic chemicals. Beneficial bacteria cultures, including Bacter-Plus and Cycle, are available at pet stores. You should dispense the beneficial bacteria with a large filter grate, which sits in your filter and allows water to pass through while also providing a solid surface on which bacteria can grow and absorb ammonia. Bio-Wheel filters feature a wheel that resembles a gear and that spins as water passes underneath it.