Nitrate - How high too high?

[Biff_Sykes]

I have a 14 Biocube with 2 Clowns, a large snail and 6 hermits. My Nitrate level appears to be 5ppm. How high is too high? I read other forums where people are complaining about ranges being 40+. So when is it really a problem in a Fish only tank?

 

[Flaxon-Waxon]

Good at 5... A lot of people would kill for 5, even 10... Usually levels over 40 that are always that high can/will be detrimental to the overall health of the tank and animals...

 

[Biff_Sykes]

Thanks man. The tank is brand new. The fish have only been in there one week and I already did a water change on Sunday. The plan is to do 1-2 gallons every Sunday with some vacuuming so hopefully the nitrate stay super low.