Before starting up an aquarium, it seems that many people do not understand the importance of the nitrogen cycle. They jump into this hobby and try to do various things without proper preparation.

You should be aware that certain bacteria are needed to create an established environment for the fish by helping the breakdown of ammonia to nitrates. This is actually the problem for a new tank because such bacteria are generated from existing fish.

The nitrogen cycle works with this principle. Waste generated by food eaten, along with excess food and plant debris, is the source of ammonia in the aquarium, a substance that is toxic and needs to be broken down. This is where the nitrifying bacteria comes into play. The ammonia is turned into nitrites, which are more tolerable to fish.

The process of turning nitrites into nitrates, which are less toxic to the fish, then involves different nitrifying bacteria. The filters then minimize the amount of nitrates. To remove the accumulated nitrates from the water, you still need to change the water from time to time.

Once again, remember that new aquariums lack of nitrifying bacteria so avoid overfeeding because the excess food will increase the ammonia level quickly. It is wise to give food that can be consumed in the first two to five minutes.