[API Master test kit - Nitrate shaking]

On 9/28/2020 at 12:34 PM, DaveSamsell said:

@aquachris, The Tetra test strips will definitely get you there in being very close.  I like the API liquid tests a bit more, but that's just me.

Folks that have a lot of aquariums, generally use the strips, while average fish-keepers like myself, have the time for the liquid tests.  

 I was just testing all my aquariums today and I really shake the nitrate bottle a lot.  Feels like my hand is still in the other room, lol.  

Seen a video on the internet awhile back where they put the test bottles into a fully padded 'rock tumbler'.  Not sure that would work, be too rough, make the bottles leak, etc, but wanted to mention that technique, for what it's worth.  

Anyway,  I also use Seachem Nitrite/Nitrate tests & they don't require any shaking, just some stirring.

BTW, you are not a "terrible fish-keeper" as you stated, for not using the liquid tests.  There are many ways of testing for the same result.

 All the best.......

 

I use the API.  The pro is API TESTING IS DO MUCH cheaper than test strips if you are testing multiple tanks weekly. The con is they take more time.  I do have them in my fish kit tho and have seen a difference in nitrate levels with strips vs api.  Do the test chemicals in API go bad faster than the other tests?  My kit has abt a year before it is set to expire.  by the way I’m careful to shake bottle two 30 secs and the mix 60 secs. 

[Joan dandrea]

4 minutes ago, Low flow filtration said:

🤨Hi.  What filter can I use the suggested Seachem 50gph or less water flow.  I’m having trouble controlling nitrates ina 20 gallon housing 5 small African Ciclids.  I’ve purchased denitrate from Seachem, but the aqua clears I filter the tank with have much higher gph.  I’ve tried all the standard remedies and am setting up a bigger tank for them, but that’s a slow happening.  

Seachem recommends 250 ml on denitrate.  I think that works out as a little over a cup of denitrate in a bio bag.  I’m thinking about a corner or box filter or a sis’s knockoff.  Also thought of taking the media out of one of the aqua clears if I can figure out a way to successfully slow the flow to 50gph

[Joan dandrea]

🤨Hi.  What filter can I use the suggested Seachem 50gph or less water flow.  I’m having trouble controlling nitrates ina 20 gallon housing 5 small African Ciclids.  I’ve purchased denitrate from Seachem, but the aqua clears I filter the tank with have much higher gph.  I’ve tried all the standard remedies and am setting up a bigger tank for them, but that’s a slow happening.