Nitrate levels

[salza80]

what are acceptable nitrate levels for discus? i'm new to this, had my 3 discus for 2 weeks. Everything is going well but i don't know if i'm doing frequent enough water changes. I did a water change yesterday, and tonight my nitrate levels are 5 ppm. Is this ok? the fish seem happy and are eating well.

Thanks

Sal

[mistakes r crucial]

5 is fine.
MAC

[salza80]

Thanks. They seem pretty happy.
I was wondering though, what are the acceptable nitrate levels. What is a high reading? I was just going to minitor my tank for a week or so to see how long it takes for the nitrate levels to become to high so i know roughly how often water changes are required for my tank.

Thanks

Sal

[Dee]

Hi Salza,

5ppm Nitrate is a good value to aim for. 15-20ppm would be the highest I would personally let my Nitrates get upto before water changing.

Having said that, your discus will let you know when your Nitrate is getting too high, 5-10ppm is a good target though.

HTH

cheers,

Dee :)