ok now that i found out the problem, nitrites

[justinwwwallin]

how do i get them down?

 

[scopus tang]

Time?! Over time, nitrites are naturally converted into nitrates by bacteria in your system. If nitrites are too high in an established tank you can reduce them with water changes. Hope that helps

 

[sh00tist]

There is no one simple answer,a water change may reduce them but it wont keep them down. Nitrates are being produced from decaying matter,plain and simple. This may be from overfeeding,where uneaten food is allowed to collect and rot. Another cause is fish poop from overstocking,inadequate filtration and or refer to overfeeding. The obvious solutions are to cut down on feeding dont overstock... Because most people will continue to do both other alternatives have been presented. First of all creating enough flow in your tank to keep debris suspended in the water column so it can be removed and filtered off. Another thing that helps is more LR providing more bacteria which will clean the water better. A good skimmer goes a long way removing particulate matter that will decay producing nitrates. Another thing that helps is utilizing natural filtration by incorporating plants into your system many of which will directly remove nitrates from your water as they grow. If you use any sort of sponges or filter floss keep it changed and very clean or dont use them at all. Sponges,filter socks and filter floss are wonderful methods of removing particulate matter from our systems but they are a double edged sword and will cut deep if you forget or dont have time to keep them clean and changed out. Combining any or all of these things will reduce and eventually eliminate nitrates entirely. Remember, if you have nitrates showing up in your tank then you have matter that has collected somewhere and is currently rotting away poisoning your inhabitants.