Nitrite (NO2): Forms the second stage of nitrogen decomposition. Is generated by bacteria from ammonium (NH4) and ammonia (NH3) and further decomposed to nitrate (NO3). As nitrite reduces the transport of oxygen in the blood of the fish, it is usually fatal from 0.4 mg/l. The filter material JBL Clearmec plus binds nitrite to the material. It does not need to be biologically degraded.
Nitrate: Is generated from nitrite by bacteria and is broken down by bacteria to nitrogen gas in the absence of oxygen (in the filter). This gas then escapes from the aquarium water (denitrification). Nitrate is not toxic to fish, but it promotes algae growth. The filter material JBL Clearmec plus binds nitrate to the material, which does not need to be biologically degraded.
Phosphate: Phosphate is created by dead algae & plant residues as well as from fish excrements and uneaten fish food. It is not harmful for fish, but it promotes the growth of algae. Partial water changes, removing plant remains and the right amount of fish and food keep phosphate levels low. JBL Clearmec plus binds phosphates to the filter material.