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What is the difference b/t nitrate 3 and nitrate 2

Also, how do you lower the nitrates in your water. Mine are at the higher end continuously.

Any advise appriciated!

I can't help you with the nitrate 2 & 3 question, maybe you can explain a little better?

To lower your nitrates in your water, you need to do water changes. 20%-30% per week is the norm, but then there are special circumstances (such as the type of fish kept or overstocking) that may lead to more frequent changes.

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I used to be Snow White, but I drifted.
~ Mae West

Also, make sure you are not overfeeding. That can cause higher nitrates, as well as being overstocked.

*Kristin*

I think by nitates two and three you mean NO2 and NO3? These are the formulas for nitrite and nitrate, respectively. Nitrate has one more oxygen atom than nitrite, and comes one step later on the nitrogen cycle. Nitrite is much more dangerous to fish than nitrate is, and should only be present in a tank during the "cycling" period. Nitrate in low amounts is normal for most fish tanks.

The best method for removing nitrates in a typical freshwater tank is water changes, as mentioned above. Live plants and algae will consume nitrates, and in saltwater tanks it is easy to obtain (within live rock) bacteria which will use nitrates and remove them from a tank.

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And when he gets to Heaven, to Saint Peter he will tell: "One more Marine reporting, Sir! I've served my time in Hell."

Oh O.k thank you. That was very helpful! /:'