So How Do I Go About Reading And Applying It

[rhi]

So I just recently got my api test kit. YAY!!!! The readings are:

ph: 6.6
High: 7.0
NH4: .25
Nitrate: 0
Nitrite: 0
 
So how do I read this and apply it in order to maintain my aquarium? Thanks!

 

[Blondielovesfish]

Ideally, you want to have 0 ammonia and 0 nitrite. Doing water changes (if the tank isn't cycled) should help keep them at those levels.

Is the tank cycled?

Do you have live plants in the tank?

 

[the_lock_man]

I just deleted your other thread on the same subject - we don't like duplicate threads around here, makes the place look untidy
 
The key information we need is how new the aquarium is, and whether you are still cycling its filter.

 

[rhi]

It's a planted tank and its cycle for bout a year now.

 

[kazc31]

Weekly 25% water changes using gravel vacuum clean excess poop from gravel or decor! Remove and dead plant leaves! And give glass a wipe! Every month give filter sponge a squeeze in some removed used aquarium water to remove excess gunk!!
Also if u ever decided to clean any decor again do it using used water so u don't kill off any good bacteria!!

 

[rhi]

okay it's what I usually do anyways. Is there anything else I should know about the reading

 

[kazc31]

Ammonia and nitrite should remain at 0. If any show up extra water changes to bring them back down until things settle to normal!!!