Features:

For determining the ammonia/ammonium total concentration

The ammonium ion (NH₄⁺) is the result of nitrogen mineralization. The organically bound nitrogen (for example in proteins) in food leftovers and excrements is converted by protein splitting bacteria and released in the form of inorganic ammonium ions. Depending on the pH-value there is equilibrium between ammonium ions and ammonia (NH₃) in the water. Ammonia is very dangerous because it impairs the respiration of the aquatic animals. It easily penetrates into the cells which raises the pH-value and blocks vital functions.

With the Tropic Marin^® AMMONIA-/AMMONIUM-TEST the ammonia/ammonium total concentration can be determined with the help of a finely tuned color chart which includes a concentration range from 0.01-3 mg/l. Crucial is the total ammonia concentration which is the result of the ammonia/ammonium total concentration depending on the temperature and the pH-value.

Benefits:

How to use:

1. Shake the dropping bottle before each use!

2. First rinse the vial with tap water and then several times with aquarium water and fill it with 5 ml of aquarium water using the measuring syringe.

3. Now add 5 drops each of the ammonia/ammonium test reagents A, B and C, shaking after each addition.

4. After 5 minutes developing time place the open vial on the white interior circles of the color areas of the color chart. By looking from above into the open vial the color of the solution can be compared with the surrounding color field. The ammonia/ammonium total concentration is read below the matching color field. A slight cloudiness with sea water samples does not influence the result of the test.

5. The total ammonia concentration is depending on the temperature and the pH-value. The total NH₃ values are shown in the chart (see instruction manual).

Results:
– Less than 0.075 mg/l: not dangerous
– Starting at app.0.075 mg/l ammonia: damage possible
– Starting at 0.1 mg/l ammonia: life threatening damage likely, especially with the young fish
– Starting at ca. 0.23 mg/l ammonia: life threatening for all fish

Prevention:
If the ammonia/ammonium total concentration is too high, we recommend:
1. Examination and, if necessary, reduction of the amount of feed
2. Partial water exchange
3. Cleaning of the basin and removal of dead organisms
4. Use of an ammonium adsorbant

Safety advice:
Ammonia/ammonium test reagent B contains soda lye • Causes severe burns • Keep out of the reach of children • Should there be contact with skin or eyes, rinse thoroughly with fresh water • In case of accident or illness consult a physician immediately and show the package.

Storage life:
The reagents can be used for 12 months after the first use.

The entire instruction manual as PDF file can be found here: AMMONIA-/AMMONIUM-TEST

Item                                                Art-N°

Refill pack                                                 28745v