how do i lower the nitrate levels in my tank?

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my aquarium tank has very high nitrate and nitrite levels in it. i was wondering how to cure it.

 

Water changes are the easiest way, Do you have any plants in the tank?

 

Sam,

Welcome to 3Reef and feel free to join!

Water changes are an immediate and easy solution to your problem, but that does not address what the cause is.

If you could provide as much information about your tank and set-up including the livestock you are keeping would be most helpful in diagnosing your problem and coming up with a solution.

The elevated nitrites indicate that your bioload is to high for your available denitrification. This could be related too many fish or overfeeding. A skimmer would certainly help mitigate the circumstances.

Let us know and we'll help as best we can.

 

How long has it been set up? Are you still cycling?

 

In a FRESHWATER;D aquarium, the bes way I've found was to increase areation, use live plants, and keep up with regular waterchanges.

 

I agree with fidojoe but really would like to know what you are feeding and how much.

 

Let the tank finish it's cycle. The Nitrites should be lower now and if at the end of the cycle your nitrates will peak then fall.
Live plants do help but the tanks need to cycle.
Use RO water and this will help alot.

 

This is freshwater what is this DEnitrification you speak of. water change water change waterchange!

 

[quote author=Covey link=board=Freshwater;num=1074885859;start=0#7 date=08/09/04 at 18:51:52]  water change water change waterchange![/quote]

The solution to pollution is dillution. Utter rubbish

John

 

Somehow a mad scientist battling a fish with a pistol works ;D