Nitrocycle
Aquarium organisms from protozoa to fishes release ammonia into the water as a metabolic waste product which is highly toxic to marinelife. Thankfully, the natural world (and most aquaria) contain only trace quantities of the substance due to the activity of nitrifying bacteria. These mainly aerobic, autolithotrophic microorganisms include both ammonia-oxidizing species (which make less toxic nitrite) and nitrite-oxidizing bacteria (which make relatively harmless nitrate). There is a lag time between the first appearance of these microbes and the disappearance of the last detectable level of nitrite. That is, the system requires some amount of time to "cycle" before it is safe to introduce all but the very hardiest livestock; adding fish to an uncycled system typically results in a total tank crash with a few weeks. In former years, it was common practice to deploy a pioneer fish (mollies, damselfish, etc.) in order to get the ball rolling. Other methods alternately used rotting organic matter (such as dead prawns) as a nitrogen source. The former technique has since been deemed cruel whereas the latter has lost favor due to the filth it produces. Nowadays, the preferred methods for cycling a new aquarium are totally clean and humane, utilizing only bottled inoculants and inorganic nitrogen sources.
What does Nitrocycle do?
Ammonia and nitrite are toxic biological waste products that can rapidly accumulate in recirculating aquarium systems. These toxins naturally convert to less harmful nitrate by the activity of
nitrifying bacteria. In what is commonly known as the nitrogen cycle, ammonia is converted to nitrite by certain nitrifiers (e.g. Nitrosomonas); nitrite is converted to nitrate by others (e.g. Nitrobacter
). Thus, as these microbes populate a system, a biological filter becomes established (i.e. cycled). In order to protect sensitive marine livestock from ammonia and nitrite, the biological filter must fully mature before stocking the system. Various organic or inorganic nitrogenous compounds accelerate the cycling process. Inorganic sources such as NitroCycle include simple salts such as ammonium chloride, whereas organic sources include decaying biomass such as dead prawns. There are distinct advantages to using an inorganic nitrogen source.
The most significant benefits of NitroCycle are as follows:
1. It has an extensive shelf life.
2. It is easier to measure and dose.
3. It is immediately available for uptake by the bacteria.
4. Because it is inorganic (i.e. lacks carbon), it does not encourage early growth of competing heterotrophic bacteria.
5. Unlike organic nitrogen sources, it will not foul aquarium water by introducing phosphate and dissolved organic matter.
NitroCycle encourages fast colonization of nitrifying bacteria on synthetic biomedia (e.g. bioballs) as well as live or "dry" rock. It, therefore, helps to prevent dangerous ammonia spikes following the addition of valuable aquarium livestock. It does not foul or discolors aquarium water. Most notably, it does not contain phosphate or dissolved organics! This product comes in a graduated double-neck bottle, greatly simplifying
measurement/dosage. See below for more information.
NOTE:
This product is intended for use during initial (i.e. pre-stocking) aquarium conditioning. It should not be used in systems that have been stocked with live animals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is in Nitrocycle?
NITROCYCLE Contains a source of inorganic Nitrogen designed to cycle your tank to protect marine livestock from naturally-produced ammonia and nitrites.
How does it work?
NITROCYCLE accelerates the cycling process by providing a food source that encourages rapid colonization of nitrifying bacteria on synthetic biomedia as well as live or dry rock.
How often should I use Nitrocycle?
Nitrocycle is designed for single, one-time treatment.
What is the recommended dosing?
Dosage for Nitrocycle is 1ml per gallon. You can measure this by using the bottle chamber. 1 bottle treats up to 250 gallons.
How should Nitrocycle be stored?
Nitrocycle should be stored at room temperate. Do not refrigerate.
Do I need to turn anything off in my tank when adding the Nitrocycle?
Ensure all ozone, protein skimmers, and UV sterilizers are turned off during the cycling period.
My tank is already established, can I use Nitrocycle to lower my ammonia and nitrites?
NO. Do not use Nitrocycle if you have any livestock in your system. Nitrocycle is only to be used during your initial cycling process.
Should I use any other products alongside Nitrocycle?
The Aquarium Cycle Kit contains the most essential components to biologically establish a new system. Get your nitrogen cycle off to a rapid start by using only the best live nitrifying bacteria and the perfect fuel to help the microbes thrive! Using this combo pack, which includes both Turbostart 900 and Nitrocycle, you can cycle a completely sterile system in as little as five days! For best results, your tank should also contain porous media such as AlgaeBarn Dry Rock or any MarinePure media, such as MarinePure Cubes.
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