The filter is the most important part of your aquarium, ask any serious fish lover, but why exactly is that? Taking a quick look at the nitrogen cycle shows exactly what is happening in the water and why it is important for control. The nitrogen cycle: First stage: The cycle begins when the first fish into the aquarium. All products that waste products (faeces, urine and uneaten food) decomposes rapidly in an ionized ammonia or union. The first of these, the ionized form if the pH is seven and is not toxic to fish. The other form is present if the pH of the water that reaches more than 7 and is highly toxic to them. Any amount of this substance is dangerous and once they reach the levels of 2 ppm or more of the fish suffer from serious problems. Ammonia levels begin to rise about three days after the introduction of a new aquarium fish. Second stage: During this phase of bacteria known as Nitrosomonas "begin work on an oxidation reaction of ammonia in water. This completely destroys the basis of the chemical (ammonia) and replaces it with a product, nitrite. This test also second chemical highly toxic to fish and even low levels of one milligram per liter can be fatal for some species. After weeks of nitrite levels begin to rise. Third step: In the final phase of the nitrogen cycle bacteria convert nitrite to nitrate. This is much more tolerable to fish and is not dangerously low to moderate levels are reached. Aquaria template or tanks must be tested every few months to ensure nitrate levels not too high. How to combat nitrate levels in my aquarium? regular water changes, or once every two weeks. Not only have these vitamins and minerals supplement, the aim of further reducing nitrates and toxins. Vacuum frequently to eliminate all waste from the gravel. Ensure that all equipment in the aquarium works well, especially the filtering equipment. You can avoid washing the filter with tap water because it can destroy the beneficial bacteria. The fish do not eat much as many people think they are cold blooded. This means not using their energy to your body heat the same way that mammals do. They can thrive on less food. Ignore "end power blocks Week "that your pet store could try to sell. Simply the most important to stay on top of the cycle is regular maintenance.