Nitrate levels

[moonwasaloon]

My Nitrate level is about at 50 ppm, I know this is way to high. This down from 160 last week. I have been doing water changes every other day. Is this the normal speed of lowering the nitrate level in my fish tank. I went away, and filter stopped working. I didn't lose any fish though. I also heard of this stuff called prime, will this help speed up the process?

What is the goal to keep the Nitrate level at? Zero? In the booklet with my test kit, it has 40 ppm, is that true?

Thanks for the help

Jason

 

[aclockworkorange]

Ideal level is as little as possible. But under 40 is considered good.

 

[Spiritofthesoul]

I keep mine at 20ppm for normal fishes, 10ppm or lower for juveniles and babies.

 

[SCGeordie]

Prime detoxifies Ammonia (becomes Ammonium) Nitrites and Nitrates so help protect your fish while you are bringing the levels back down.

 

[packer43064]

40ppm or lower is what most hobbyists suggest.

 

[smitty03281964]

Man you are lucky.

 

[pjsmetana]

.... I also heard of this stuff called prime, will this help speed up the process?

Sure, but constant water changes are best because your tank has probably lost all its beneficial bacteria and is now cycling as if its new. Dropping a load of Prime in there might help for today, but not tomorrow. All most of us use Prime for is dechlorinating tap water.

 

[Spiritofthesoul]

btw from 160 to 50ppm in a week? You must have be slacking off before that