What is nitrate?

Nitrate is produced by the beneficial bacteria in the aquarium and filters as they breakdown the fish’s toxic waste products (ammonia and nitrite). Nitrate is not toxic to aquarium fish, but excessively high levels can affect their reproduction.

Why test for nitrate?

Nitrate is a plant nutrient. The more nitrate is present the greater the potential for plant growth. If insufficient plants are present then algae will begin to dominate in the aquarium. Aquariums with high levels of nitrate frequently have problems with algae and blanket weed.