NITRITE (NO2–)
Nitrite is made in aquariums as a halfway step in a number of nitrogen cycle processes. When aerobic bacteria oxidize ammonium ions and turn it into nitrite and then nitrate, this change takes place. Also, bacteria that can work without oxygen make nitrite when they break down nitrate (denitrification). In biofilms, these things happen at the same time. You don’t need a deep bed of sand or something very porous for this. The types of bugs that are involved depend on how many nutrients are present.
WHAT DOES THIS DO?
It is an early stage in the nitrogen cycle and shouldn’t be found in ecosystems that are healthy.
PROBLEMS: Nitrite in saltwater is not directly harmful, but an unbalanced nitrogen cycle can cause issues and make algae grow in the tank that you don’t want.
MEASURES: If the numbers are too high, you should add bacteria or Bacto Reef Blend as a supplement. Also, the system’s power should be checked at the same time. It is very important to stay away from metals like zinc that are needed by enzymes at all costs.
Types of Indicators: Fish might look tense and have a faster breathing rate. When polyps aren’t fully stretched and opened, corals may look dull. The tank may look dull all around.
There are several cases in which the quantity of nitrite may temporarily rise. But because saltwater has a lot of chlorine, nitrite is not as dangerous as it is in freshwater. Still, the number should be noted because it shows that the nitrogen cycle is being upset.
Set up a new tank
The nitrite levels rise between the third and fourteenth day, depending on the design and bacteria type that were used. After that, the amount of nitrite should go down.
Lack of trace elements
For aquarium biofilm to stay healthy, the amount of nutrition, trace elements and vitamins that are available is very important. Our Balling Light System is made to make sure that there is a good supply of bacteria films, which are necessary for stable systems and long-term tank success with healthy corals. NO2− is less harmful in ocean tanks than in freshwater tanks, but levels above 1.0 mg/l (0.26 US.liq.gal.) can hurt the health of corals and fish. High amounts of nitrite can make fish get sick more often and make corals have trouble growing. It can also cause algae to grow in coral shells and make them less strong.
Running too fast or having too many socks
If there are too many algae and biofilms in a tank, ammonia can turn into nitrite faster than it can be turned back into nitrate. This can cause nitrite to be produced. For the bacteria to get used to the new nutrients, they may need a few days to multiply.
Putting in too much carbon
If there are too many algae and biofilms in a tank, ammonia can turn into nitrite faster than it can be turned back into nitrate. This can cause nitrite to be produced. For the bacteria to get used to the new nutrients, they may need a few days to multiply.
