How to Reduce Ammonia in a Saltwater Aquarium

A fish is a common choice as a first pet because you don't need to potty train it or teach it not to ruin your personal belongings. However, fish still require an adequate amount of care to keep them alive and ensure their environment does not become toxic whether you have a freshwater or saltwater aquarium. If the ammonia levels in your fish tank get too high, your fish may die or get sick due to poisoning. Symptoms of ammonia poisoning include lethargy, refusal to eat or gasping at the top of the tank for air. Clean your tank regular to reduce ammonia levels.

Instructions

    • 1

      Change the water in your tank a minimum of once a week, more often if you have multiple fish in the tank. It isn't necessary to change all the water in the tank. Changing at least 15 to 20 percent of the tank's water is sufficient to remove bacteria and decaying matter if you have a proper filtration system for the tank.

    • 2

      Don't overfeed your fish. If your fish can't finish the food in the tank, it sits and causes excessive ammonia levels. Levels naturally decrease if you don't add food to your tank for a day or two. Carefully monitor how much food you put inside the tank each day once the levels return to normal.

    • 3

      Begin your tank with only one or two fish until you have experience with maintaining the tank and regulating its conditions, including the pH, water temperature and ammonia levels. Add more fish at a later date and do plenty of research beforehand to keep ammonia levels down.

    • 4

      Check the tank on a daily basis for dead plants and fish. When they die, decay begins and releases ammonia into the tank. Remove them as soon as you notice their presence.

    • 5

      Use an ammonia-removal product if you need to reduce ammonia levels in an emergency, such as if your fish are in danger of death. Keep in mind that they aren't a permanent solution and should only be used when absolutely necessary.