About API Ammonia Test Strips

Ammonia is constantly released into the water in an aquarium containing fish, through the gills of the fish and as urine and solid waste, so regular testing with a strip from the API Ammonia Testing Strips Kit ensures accuracy in results and allows aquarists to manage and prevent potential imbalances.

As the number one cause of stress and related death in tropical fish, ammonia damages gill membranes and prevents fish from carrying out normal respiration, quickly leading to death when in high levels. Even trace amounts of ammonia suppress the immune system and increase the likelihood of disease.

The biological filter in the aquarium acts as a natural defence against ammonia, but any natural system can suffer imbalances, especially those which are in new aquariums or in aquariums which have a heavy fish load. 

In an established aquarium or pond, the ammonia level should always remain at 0 ppm (mg/l) to avoid unnecessary stress on fish, however in unbalanced bodies of water the level can surge to 4 ppm and above. Use of Easy Life Biological Fluid Filter Media will speed up cycling and conversion of ammonia and nitrite to less harmful substances.

Regular monitoring is key to preventing and halting ammonia surges -  every 2 days in a new aquarium and every week in an established aquarium is recommended.

API Ammonia Test Strips are an excellent method of testing the water, monitoring levels of between 0 ppm and 6 ppm in 5 increments.

Suitable for freshwater and saltwater (marine) aquariums and ponds.

Directions: Read directions thoroughly before testing. Dip strip directly into aquarium for 5 seconds. Remove with pad face up, and hold strip level for 60 seconds. DO NOT SHAKE OFF EXCESS WATER. Compare to colour chart on tube.