API Nitrate Test Kit (90 Test)

1,890.00

  • Measures nitrate (NO₃⁻) levels from 0–160 ppm
  • Performs up to 90 accurate liquid tests
  • Suitable for freshwater and saltwater aquariums
  • Helps monitor long-term water quality
  • Essential for planted, community, and reef aquariums
  • Helps identify causes of nuisance algae
  • More accurate than most test strips
  • Includes glass test tube and colour chart
  • Trusted by aquarium hobbyists worldwide
  • Made in USA by API
SKU: API-NITRATE-TK90 Categories: , Brand:

Product Information

API Nitrate Test Kit (90 Tests) – Professional liquid aquarium test kit that accurately measures nitrate (NO₃⁻) levels in freshwater and saltwater aquariums. Essential for monitoring water quality, controlling algae, supporting fish health, maintaining planted tanks and reef aquariums, and preventing long-term nitrate-related stress. Performs up to 90 tests.

Accurately Measure Nitrate Levels for a Healthier Aquarium

Nitrate (NO₃⁻) is the final product of the aquarium nitrogen cycle. While it is significantly less toxic than ammonia or nitrite, high nitrate levels over time can stress fish, encourage nuisance algae, reduce coral health, and affect the growth and coloration of aquatic plants.

The API Nitrate Test Kit is designed to accurately measure nitrate levels from 0 to 160 ppm in both freshwater and saltwater aquariums, helping aquarists monitor long-term water quality and determine when maintenance or water changes are required.

Using API’s trusted liquid reagent system, this kit provides more reliable results than many test strips and is suitable for beginners as well as experienced hobbyists.

Why Aquarium Hobbyists Choose API Nitrate Test Kit

  • Measures nitrate from 0–160 ppm
  • Performs up to 90 tests
  • Suitable for freshwater and saltwater aquariums
  • Essential for planted tanks and reef aquariums
  • Helps monitor the final stage of the nitrogen cycle
  • Supports long-term fish health
  • Helps identify causes of algae outbreaks
  • More accurate than many test strips
  • Includes easy-to-read colour chart
  • Made in USA

Why Should You Test Nitrate?

High nitrate levels may contribute to:

  • Poor fish health over time
  • Increased algae growth
  • Reduced coral vitality
  • Slower plant growth
  • Poor breeding performance
  • Stress in sensitive fish and shrimp

Routine nitrate testing helps determine when water changes and maintenance are needed before these issues become serious.

When Should You Test Nitrate?

API recommends testing:

  • Weekly in established aquariums
  • During aquarium cycling (after ammonia and nitrite begin to decline)
  • Before and after major water changes
  • If algae growth increases
  • In planted and reef aquariums as part of regular maintenance

What’s Included?

  • API Nitrate Test Solution Bottle #1
  • API Nitrate Test Solution Bottle #2
  • Glass test tube
  • Colour chart
  • Instruction booklet

Performs approximately 90 tests.

Country of Origin USA

Expert Recommendation from Something Fishy

Many aquarists stop testing once ammonia and nitrite reach zero, but nitrate is equally important for long-term aquarium health.

At Something Fishy, we recommend testing nitrate weekly, especially in heavily stocked aquariums, planted tanks, shrimp setups, and marine systems. Regular testing helps prevent algae problems and ensures your maintenance schedule is based on actual water quality rather than guesswork.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a safe nitrate level in an aquarium?

The ideal nitrate level depends on the type of aquarium. Fish-only tanks, planted aquariums, shrimp tanks, and reef aquariums all have different acceptable ranges. Regular testing helps you maintain nitrate at levels appropriate for your livestock.

What causes high nitrate in an aquarium?

Common causes include:

Overstocking
Overfeeding
Infrequent water changes
Accumulated organic waste
Dirty filter media
Decaying plants or fish

Does high nitrate cause algae?

Yes.
Excess nitrate, particularly when combined with phosphate and prolonged lighting, can encourage nuisance algae growth.

API Nitrate Test Kit vs Test Strips – Which is more accurate?

Liquid test kits are generally regarded as more precise and consistent than many aquarium test strips, making them a preferred choice for monitoring nitrate levels.

Why do I still have nitrate even though ammonia and nitrite are zero?

This is normal.

Nitrate is the end product of the nitrogen cycle. Once ammonia and nitrite have been converted by beneficial bacteria, nitrate accumulates until it is removed through water changes, plant uptake, or other nutrient export methods.

I use borewell or RO water. Should I still test nitrate?

Yes.
Nitrate in an aquarium is primarily produced from fish waste and decomposing organic matter, regardless of the water source. Regular testing remains important.

I keep Arowana, Discus, Flowerhorn, Oscars, or Koi. Should I monitor nitrate?

Absolutely. Large fish produce significant waste, which can lead to nitrate accumulation. Regular testing helps maintain stable water quality and supports long-term health.

My plants are not growing well. Should I test nitrate?

Yes. Nitrate is an important nutrient for aquatic plants. Both excessively high and very low nitrate levels can affect plant growth, so testing helps guide proper nutrient management.

Why do I need to shake Bottle #2 so much?

Bottle #2 contains reagents that settle over time. Vigorous shaking before use is essential for obtaining accurate test results. This is one of the most common reasons hobbyists get incorrect nitrate readings.

Shipping & Returns

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