Nitrifying bacteria play an integral role in the nitrogen cycle in ponds and aquariums as they are responsible for the biological filtration of toxic ammonia and nitrite that is created from fish waste and other organic matter. During the nitrification process, ammonia is converted to nitrite by Nitrosomonas and nitrite is then converted into nitrate by Nitrobacter.

Pond Keeper Pro Nitrifying Bacteria can be used to quickly establish (cycle) a new pond or water garden, jump start a crashed filtration system, replenish nitrifiers after a medication treatment or when large volume water changes occur.

Due to the extreme concentration level of this product, new ponds can be cycled in less than 5 days and in as little as 36 hours. If left solely to nature, it could take 6-8 weeks for a new pond to cycle and be capable of supporting fish.

Nitrifying bacteria are very sensitive organisms and require certain conditions in a pond for them to thrive and colonize. Use the following checklist to ensure your pond is ready to support nitrifiers.

1. Be sure to de-chlorinate the water with a water conditioner like Pond Keeper All-In-One Water Conditioner

2. Turn off UV lights, Ozone Generators and Protein Skimmers before application and leave off for 7 days

3. pH should be as close to neutral as possible and remain steady.

4. Water temperature should be moderate with a range of 77° F to 86 ° F.

5. Dissolved oxygen levels should be at 6 mg/l or better.

Apply 8 oz of Pond Keeper Pro Nitrifying Pond Bacteria per 300 gallons of water.

Pour directly into pond near filter. Fish may be added immediately. Keep feeding low during the first week. Ammonia reduction will begin to be seen after the first 24 hours. Nitrite should be near zero within 5 days. Once ammonia & nitrite are both at zero, slowly increase feeding or add more fish. When used as instructed, additional applications aren’t needed.