Aquariums or ponds de peces represent a miniature aquatic or marine ecosystem, which means that we must treat them with the same care that would be given in a wider natural environment. Maintaining this balance is crucial to ensure the health and well-being of the fish and aquatic plants that inhabit the aquarium. Aquarium cycling plays a fundamental role in this balance, and in this article you will learn why this process is vitally important and how to carry it out effectively.
What is aquarium cycling?
Aquarium cycling is a process by which ideal conditions are created for the beneficial bacteria colonize the filter and the substrate of the aquarium. These bacteria are responsible for converting the toxic waste into less harmful productsWithout proper cycling, the aquarium environment can become unsuitable for marine life, resulting in fish deaths due to high levels of toxic compounds such as ammonia.
The goal of cycling is to establish a biological balance in the aquatic ecosystem, allowing the bacteria present to break down waste products produced by fish and other organisms. These bacteria convert ammonia into nitrites and then into nitrates, a process known as the Cycle of nitrogen.
The nitrogen cycle in the aquarium
When fish release excrement and uneaten food decomposes, dangerous compounds such as ammonia (NH3)High concentrations of ammonia in water can be fatal to fish and other aquatic organisms.
Stages of the nitrogen cycle:
- Ammonia is initially broken down by a colony of bacteria called Nitrosomonas, which transforms it into nitrite (NO2).
- Nitrite, although less toxic than ammonia, is still harmful to fish. This is where the second colony of bacteria known as nitrite comes into play. Nitrobacter, which oxidizes nitrite and converts it into nitrate (NO3).
- Finally, nitrates are considered less toxic in low concentrations and can be used as fertilizer for aquatic plants, although in excess they can also be harmful.
It is therefore critical to ensure that there is a sufficient population of nitrifying bacteria to keep the nitrogen cycle in balance.
Importance of cycling for fish health
The first step to ensuring fish health is to make sure the water is free of toxins. However, it is essential to understand that clear water does not always indicate that it is free of dangerous substances. Substances such as ammonia and nitrites are invisible and can only be measured with specific tests.
This is why it is crucial to perform proper cycling before introducing fish into a new aquarium. If fish are introduced before the aquarium is cycled, they are likely to become stressed, sick, or even die due to the presence of high levels of ammonia and nitrite in the water.
How to speed up aquarium cycling?
The cycling process usually takes between 2 to 8 weeks, but there are ways to speed it up:
- Introduce filter material from an already cycled aquarium: If you have access to another aquarium that has already been cycled, you can take some of its filter or substrate and transfer it to the new aquarium.
- Use commercial bacteria: There are products on the market that contain colonies of nitrifying bacteria ready to add to the aquarium.
- Add aquatic plants: Plants not only absorb nitrates, but also help reduce levels of other toxic compounds. In addition, plants promote the proliferation of bacteria in their roots and leaves.
Monitoring during cycling
It is vital to regularly monitor ammonia, nitrite and nitrate levels during and after cycling. Test kits can be used to check water chemistry levels.
Tips for monitoring water:
- Ammonia: If the ammonia level exceeds 0.5 ppm (parts per million), it is dangerous for fish.
- Nitrites: Nitrite levels should also be low. Anything above 0.5 ppm is harmful.
- Nitrates: In this case, nitrates should be kept below 40 ppm to prevent long-term problems.
The vital role of plants in cycling
Aquatic plants play a crucial role in the cycling process. Not only do they act as a natural filter, but they also contribute to the reduction of levels of toxic compounds such as ammonia and nitrite. Plants absorb ammonia as a direct source of nitrogen, which helps speed up the cycling process. In addition, they also use nitrate as a fertilizer, which further reduces toxic products in the aquarium water.
Something important to keep in mind is that aquatic plants Not only do they improve water quality, but they also provide shelter and protection for fish, which is essential for the overall well-being of the aquarium ecosystem.
Post-cycling maintenance: How to keep your aquarium cycled?
Once the aquarium has been successfully cycled, the work doesn't stop. The biological balance must be maintained over the long term to ensure that the fish and plants continue to thrive. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Be sure to perform Partial water changes regularly to prevent the accumulation of nitrates.
- uses a suitable filter for the size of your aquarium and clean it only when necessary, without completely eliminating the beneficial bacteria.
- Don't overfeed your fish or overstock your aquarium with too many inhabitants. This can create more waste than the bacteria can handle.
Always remember that the long-term success of your aquarium depends on maintaining biological balance, which can only be achieved if you respect and care for the nitrogen cycle in your aquarium.
Aquarium cycling is an essential process that should not be taken lightly. Although it may seem complex at first, it is a fundamental part of ensuring the health and well-being of fish and other components of the aquatic ecosystem. Not only does it remove toxic compounds from the water, but it also establishes a balanced and sustainable habitat. Patience during the cycling process will be rewarded with a vibrant and healthy aquarium.