Nitrite poisoning looks externally like lack of oxygen
The breathing of the fish quickens this can be seen by the violent gill movements. The fish hangs close to the water surface. It is noticeable that fish with nitrite poisoning rub themselves against leaves and objects as if they are itching and cannot get rid of it.
The fish may be quite pale or gray in color, the gills may be red in color. The fins hang weakly. It appears as if the fish is beginning to become exhausted. The fish suffocates internally because the nitrite blocks oxygen transport in the blood. All of these symptoms indicate Nitrite Toxicity – NO2.
Nitrite poisoning can come from
Overfeeding
Disturbed bacterial metabolism
Too many fish in the aquarium
The filter has too little capacity
In sensitive fish species, this can be due to oxygen-rich and fast-flowing water, reduce the flow rate.
Solving nitrite problems
Check circulation, flow rate of filter system. Good water flow is important.
Do not touch your filter, you can add an extra filter sponge, but just leave the rest in and never start cleaning your filter!
Stop feeding fish temporarily.
Do not change the water, it will get worse!
Add extra plants (only helps a little).
Buy a bottle of water conditioner.
Never put the fish in a separate tank, unless you can transfer the fish to an aquarium that has been running well for months.
Take out dead plant leaves from bottom.
Remove dead fish or snail quickly.
As mentioned above, nitrite poisoning can come from a variety of causes. Try to find out what caused it to prevent a second poisoning.
Pro Tip: Never change filter masses during water changes
Filters should not be changed all at once, this will also disrupt the nitrite-degrading bacteria of the filter system.
I’m Benjamin, an aquarium, and fish hobbyist for more than three decades now.
My passion for aquarium fish never wavered after so many years. I keep consuming everything about fish tank, aquariums and alike.
As a result of my experience with aquariums and fish, I have decided to build this blog.
My goal is to answer all your questions – and even those you haven’t asked yourself yet – so you can take care of your fish and aquariums. From one passionate to another passionate!
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