Ammonia poisoning

Schematic representation of the flow of Nitrogen through a common aquarium.

Ammonia poisoning is a common fish disease in new aquariums, especially when immediately stocked to full capacity. Ideally, the level of ammonia (NH3) and ammonium compounds (i.e. those containing NH4+) should be zero. Although trace amounts are generally harmless, they can still lead to problems over time. Understanding the nitrogen cycle is essential for the keeping of any aquatic life. The amount of ammonia present is usually accompanied by a rise in pH. As ammonia is a base, it is stabilized by alkaline water. It can cause damage to the gills at a level as small as 0.25 mg/L.

Diagnosis

A history of the tank: filter changes, power outages, excessive feeding, or the addition of microbicidal or antibiotic agents to aquarium can aid in diagnosis. An ammonia test is the most sure way of diagnosing ammonia poisoning.

Symptoms include:

  1. Purple, red or bleeding gills
  2. Fish may clamp, may appear darker in color
  3. Red streaking on the fins or body
  4. Fish may gasp for air at the surface of the tank water
  5. Torn & jagged fins
  6. Fish may appear weak and lay at the bottom of the tank

Prevention

The nitrogen cycle in an aquarium.

Ammonia poisoning is currently impossible to cure however it can be prevented easily by first cycling the tank (see below). Treatments include immediately reducing the ammonia level through many small water changes. Alternatively an ammonia detoxifier can be used (try not to do this unless absolutely necessary), though such chemicals are best used in emergencies only, and do not provide a substitute for adequate tank cycling. Once the ammonia is removed, the fish may recover if the damage is not too extensive. Increasing aeration may be desirable, as the fishes' gills are often damaged by the ammonia. This can increase the probability of survival slightly. Also, all other sources of stress should be removed, and the cause of the ammonia should be addressed.

Prevention (Tank Cycling)

Tank cycling is a process during which ammonia reducing bacteria are built up sufficiently to handle the tank load. This process can take two to four weeks.

See also

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