Nitrates in Aquarium Water

Abstract

The formation of nitrate in the water of an aquarium tank stocked with fish was followed. As much as 1 gram per litre expressed as sodium nitrate was found. By adding lactate or tartrate to the water the development of denitrifying bacteria brought about almost complete removal of the nitrates and nitrites in the water. The experiments form part of an investigation made under the direction of Dr. Jan Smit.