API - Ammonia Test Kit - 130 Tests

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The API Ammonia Test Kit measures ammonia to help prevent fish loss, as ammonia is the number one stressor and killer of tropical fish. Ammonia is released into an aquarium in the forms of uneaten food, decaying organic matter, and when fish release it through their gills, urine, and solid waste.

The API Ammonia Test Kit is a mercury-free, salicylate test for fresh and saltwater fish, and levels ammonia levels from 0 to 8 ppm.

We recommend that you take a few minutes each week to monitor your aquarium conditions and create a better underwater world for your fish. Testing your aquarium water has never been so easy or accurate!

Package Description: 130 Tests

Serving Size: ..

Number of Servings: ..

Contains 130 tests and includes 2 test solutions, easy-to-ready instructions, glass test tube and 2 color charts

AMMONIA (NH₃/NH₄+) TEST KIT INSTRUCTIONS

Why test for Ammonia?

Tropical fish continually release ammonia (NH3) directly into the aquarium through their gills, urine, and solid waste. Uneaten food and other decaying organic matter also add ammonia to the water. A natural mechanism exists that controls ammonia in the aquarium – the biological filter. It is made up of nitrifying bacteria, which live in the gravel bed. However, as with any natural process, imbalances can occur. Testing for the presence of toxic ammonia is essential, so that once detected, steps can be taken to remove it. Otherwise, ammonia in the aquarium will damage gill membranes, and prevent fish from carrying on normal respiration. High levels of ammonia quickly lead to fish death. Even trace amounts stress fish, suppressing their immune system and thereby increasing the likelihood of disease outbreaks and subsequent fish loss.

Testing Tips: This salicylate based ammonia test kit reads the total ammonia level in parts per million (ppm) which are equivalent to milligrams per Liter (mg/L) from 0 ppm to 8.0 ppm (mg/L), in either fresh or saltwater aquariums. Thus, there are two Ammonia Test Color Charts — one for freshwater aquariums, and one for saltwater aquariums — so be sure to use the correct chart for your type of aquarium when interpreting test results. The Freshwater Ammonia Test Color Chart is the appropriate chart to use for testing freshwater aquariums to which salt has been added.

Directions for Testing Ammonia Levels. Read thoroughly before testing. Do not allow Test Solutions to get into aquarium. To remove childproof safety cap: With one hand, push red tab left with thumb while unscrewing cap with free hand. Fill a clean test tube with 5 ml of water to be tested (to the line on the tube). Add 8 drops from Ammonia Test Solution Bottle #1, holding the dropper bottle upside down in a completely vertical position to assure uniformity of drops added to the water sample. Add 8 drops from Ammonia Test Solution Bottle #2, holding the dropper bottle upside down in a completely vertical position to assure uniformity of drops added to the water sample. Cap the test tube and shake vigorously for 5 seconds. Do not hold finger over the open end of the tube, as this may affect the test results. Wait 5 minutes for the color to develop. Read the test results by matching the test solution against the Ammonia Test Color Chart. The tube should be viewed against the white area beside the color chart. Color comparisons are best made in a well-lit area. The closest match indicates the ppm (mg/L) of ammonia in the water sample. Rinse the test tube with clean water after each use. What the Test Results Mean: In a new freshwater or saltwater aquarium, the ammonia level may surge to 6 ppm (mg/L) or more, and then fall rapidly as the biological filter becomes established. The ammonia will be converted to nitrite (also toxic), then to nitrate. This process may take several weeks. Use Aquarium Pharmaceuticals STRESS ZYME to speed up the development of the biological filter. In an established aquarium, the ammonia level should always remain at 0 ppm (mg/L). The presence of ammonia indicates possible over-feeding, too many fish, or inadequate biological filtration.

The ammonia level is not an indication of the nitrite level; nitrite is another toxic waste material which must be tested separately.

Monitoring Ammonia Levels: Regular testing is necessary to make sure the ammonia level is safe. Aquarium water should be tested for ammonia every other day when the aquarium is first set up, and once a week after the biological filter has been established (in about 4 to 6 weeks).

Detoxifying Ammonia Using AMMO-LOCK in Freshwater and Saltwater Aquariums: To detoxify ammonia, use Aquarium Pharmaceuticals AMMO-LOCK to instantly lock up ammonia. AMMO-LOCK does not remove ammonia, it simply converts toxic ammonia to a non-toxic form. Ammonia test kits will still test positive for ammonia, even though it is non-toxic. The biological filter will then consume the non-toxic ammonia, converting it to nitrite and then to nitrate.

Filtering Method to Remove Ammonia in Freshwater Aquariums: Filter aquarium water with Aquarium Pharmaceuticals AMMO-CARB or AMMO-CHIPS to remove ammonia and improve water quality.

Water Changes Changing 25% of the aquarium water will reduce the ammonia level. In an emergency, a daily water change may be required over several days. Be sure to use a water conditioner like Stress Coat or AMMO-LOCK, when adding tap water back into the aquarium.

Danger:

HARMFUL & CORROSIVE C Bottle #2 contains sodium hydroxide and sodium hypochlorite
Causes severe burns
Contact with acids liberates toxic gas
Toxic by inhalation, in contact with skin and if swallowed

Danger of cumulative effects

Keep locked up and out of the reach of children
Keep away from food, drink and animal feeding stuffs
In case of contact with eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of water (at least 15 minutes) and seek medical advice immediately.
If contact lenses are present, remove after 5 minutes and continue rinsing
After contact with skin, wash immediately with plenty of water.
Remove contaminated clothing
Wear suitable gloves and eye/face protection In case of accident or if you feel unwell, seek medical advice immediately (show label where possible)
Do not mix with acidic materials

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