Monitoring the Water Quality

There are many water qualities you need to monitor to maintain a healthy aquarium tank.

Dechlorinators are required whenever you're using tap water for water changes. These nifty chemicals neutralize chlorine and remove heavy metals and other potentially life-threatening chemicals from your fishes' environment. Never add dechlorinator directly to your aquarium; add it to the tap water first and then add the treated tap water slowly into the tank.

Ammonia removers are useful for unexpected ammonia spikes, which can be deadly to your finned friends. Keep some around for emergencies, especially if you have a heavily stocked tank. These treatments are also often capable of neutralizing chloramines, which can be found in some municipal water sources.

Adding a pH conditioner to your aquarium can adjust the pH up or down as needed. A proper pH level is necessary for your fishes' long-term health.

Trace elements can be added to replenish important trace minerals that the aquarium fish and plants use up or that are filtered out. Having the proper level of trace elements can increase vitality and improve fishes' color and fertility. They also encourage plant growth and keep them looking lush.

Bacterial additives can be used to speed up an aquarium's first cycle or to condition an established aquarium. They're also useful for replenishing bacterial populations that may have been eradicated by medical treatments.