Nitrate

[caterpillar5]

What is a reasonable amount of nitrate in a non planted tank?

 

[-cAtFiSh-]

i think anything below 40ppm

 

[Cheese Specialist]

It depends on what the Nitrates in your tapwater is. Some areas in England never get below 60 and 70 (ask CFC, for instance).

Mine is never above 20 but I am lucky.

 

[FishDan]

I also think that an "acceptable" level of nitrate will also depend on the fish in the tank. Some are more easily affected by high nitrates than others. Also it depends on how haevily the tank is planted. Some more heavily planted tanks may have nitrate readings of 5 or less.

\Dan

 

[freddyk]

Most common aquarium fish will easily handle nitrates of up to 100 or more without any problems, however delicate fish may not be able to handle it as high, and no matter how you look at it lower is better. The < 40 mark mentioned is a good goal, IMO, but there's no reason to start shaking in your boots over it