Instructions
Test your water and aim for zero levels of ammonia in your saltwater aquarium. Use a commercial testing kit and make sure you check the data specifically for results for a saltwater tank, as the measurements differ between freshwater and saltwater environments.
Perform a water change if ammonia levels are at .2 ppm or higher. Change as much as 30 percent of the water, making sure that the added water is the same temperature as the aquarium water to reduce stress.
Add a commercial chemical product to reduce ammonia levels if water changes were not sufficient to lower the ammonia levels. Retest after using the product and change water if the level of ammonia is still above .2ppm after using the product.
Clean the aquarium making certain to clear out decaying organic material.
Check the filter and make sure it is working properly. When cleaning filters, don't use cleansers not intended for aquarium use as you might destroy the biological filters in place and upset the biological balance of your tank.
Only introduce new stock to your tank one or two at a time so as to not overload the system and raise ammonia levels to dangerous points.
How to Lower Ammonia in a Salt Water Aquairum
Ammonia is a deadly substance in aquariums. However, fish naturally release ammonia into the tank through their waste products and through their gills. The biological filter found in the nitrifying bacteria of the gravel bed helps to clear up the ammonia. However, sometimes the natural balance can be hampered by the addition of new fish, decaying organic matter or other processes. Testing for ammonia levels regularly and taking appropriate action is key to maintaining a healthy saltwater aquarium environment.