Testing ammonia NH3 vs. NH4

[holdyourlight]

So i am cycling a new aquarium with pure ammonia, which i understand to by NH3. Saliferts test tests for NH4. So will i be getting an accurate reading with the salifert test?

 

[tmz]

NH3 and NH4 are both species of ammonia. They change back and forth depending on the ph( avialability of H+). NH3 is much more toxic than NH4 which is also called ammonium. Test kits test total ammonia which includes them both.

 

[disc1]

Some kits have directions for two tests, free ammonia and total ammonia, allowing you to find out either number. The total ammonia test will include a reagent to raise the pH and convert all of the ammonium to ammonia.

AFAIK: The tests that only go one way usually measure total.

 

[bertoni]

The bottom line is there's no need to worry. The Salifert kit will be fine.

 

[holdyourlight]

Great. thanks guys for the clarification

 

[HighlandReefer]

Randy provides more details in this article:

Ammonia and the Reef Aquarium
http://reefkeeping.com/issues/2007-02/rhf/index.php