El New Aquarius Syndrome It is a common problem faced by many hobbyists when they start in the world of aquarium hobby. This phenomenon occurs mainly due to the accumulation of ammonia y nitrites in an aquarium that has not yet developed a balanced biological filtration system. Fish, especially the more delicate ones, often experience Stress or even morir as a result of this imbalance in the aquatic ecosystem.
What is New Aquarius Syndrome?
When you set up an aquarium from scratch, a biological process known as aquarium cycling. During this period, colonies of beneficial bacteria which transform fish waste and organic remains into less toxic compounds. However, in a newly set-up aquarium, these bacteria are not yet present in sufficient quantities. Therefore, substances such as ammonia, which fish generate through their waste and respiration, accumulate rapidly in the water.
Ammonia is highly toxic to fish even in small concentrations. As the biological cycle progresses, bacteria convert ammonia into nitrites, which are also harmful to fish. Finally, other bacteria transform nitrites into nitrates, which are less harmful and can be controlled by partial water changes and the use of natural plants in the aquarium.
Main Symptoms of the New Aquarius Syndrome
Identifying the symptoms of New Aquarius Syndrome is crucial to taking preventive or corrective measures. Some of the most common signs include:
- Stress in fish: Fish may display unusual behaviors such as swimming rapidly back and forth, staying near the surface in search of oxygen, or constantly hiding.
- Cloudy water: The proliferation of bacteria and microbes can cause a milky or cloudy appearance in the aquarium water.
- Common diseases: The accumulation of toxins compromises the immune system of fish, making them more prone to disease.
- Sudden mortality: If no measures are taken, the most sensitive fish may die within a short period of time after the aquarium is set up.
How to Prevent New Aquarius Syndrome
La prevention is the best strategy to avoid this problem. Here are a few key steps:
- Start cycling the aquarium before introducing fish: Set up the filter, add water, and run the system for at least 4-6 weeks without fish. This will allow beneficial bacteria to establish itself on the filter and other surfaces of the aquarium.
- Introduce fish gradually: Add only one or two resistant fish at the start. This minimizes the biological load and gives the bacteria time to adapt to the amount of waste generated.
- Monitor water parameters: Regularly test for ammonia, nitrites and nitrates using specific kits. Keep these levels under control to ensure a healthy environment for your fish.
- Use cycling accelerator products: There are products on the market that contain live nitrifying bacteria, which can help to quickly establish the biological cycle of the aquarium.
The Role of Biological Filtration
Biological filtration is essential for the long-term success of any aquarium. Biological filters use porous materials, such as ceramic rings or bioballs, which provide a large surface area for nitrifying bacteria to colonize. These bacteria are responsible for breaking down ammonia and nitrites into nitrates.
Furthermore, it is important to avoid clean up these filter media with tap water, as chlorine can kill beneficial bacteria. Instead, wash them gently with water from the aquarium itself.
Importance of Plants in Aquarium Cycling
The natural plants Not only do they beautify the aquarium, but they also play a crucial role in nitrate reduction. They absorb nitrates as a source of nutrients and help keep the water clean and balanced. In addition, they produce oxygen during the day, which improves the overall water quality.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Amongst the most common mistakes Contributing to New Aquarius Syndrome include:
- Overcharging: Providing more food than necessary generates organic waste that increases ammonia and nitrite levels.
- Introducing too many fish at once: This overloads the system and makes it difficult for beneficial bacteria to adapt to the biological load.
- Cleaning the filter too soon: This can kill off beneficial bacteria, restarting the nitrogen cycle.
How to Act if You Already Suffer from Aquarius Syndrome New
If you detect symptoms of this problem in your aquarium, consider the following measures:
- Perform partial water changes: Changing 10% to 20% of the water every other day can help dilute ammonia and nitrites while the system stabilizes.
- Introduce nitrifying bacteria: Using commercial products containing these bacteria can speed up the recovery of the aquarium.
- Reduce feeding: Feed fish sparingly to limit the amount of waste generated.
By following these steps and better understanding the aquarium cycling process, you can avoid major problems and maintain a healthy aquarium. healthy environment for your fish. Be prepared to be patient and learn from each experience, as success in fishkeeping lies in consistency and continuous care of your aquatic ecosystem.