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Use a product like prime that temporarily converts the ammonia to a less toxic form. By the time it has worn off you bacteria would have consumed it turning it to nitrite then nitrate. No big deal.
Ok... So Prime is good for cycling AND good for my Betta fish that I already have in a separate tank? I have Aqua-safe Plus now, could I just up-dose that until I read no ammonia?? Or does it not remove the ammonia reading on the API Master Test Kit?
And (pls also see my question above)... Is chloramine bad for the beneficial bacteria or b/c it reads like ammonia on tests, bacteria treats it as such?? Thanks!!
Chloramine is chlorine bonded with ammonia. Prime will break this bond, neutralize the chlorine and bond with the ammonia making it less toxic for a while (about 24 hours). If you have a well established bio filter the ammonia will be converted before it becomes toxic again. The ammonia will still read with the API test.
Just so you know, .5 ammo isn't toxic, but if your pH is high, then it does get into cautionary territory (though is still not a toxic level). Here is a guide to help show you some specific numbers for ammonia toxicity and when it something to be concerned about. http://www.aquariumadvice.com/forums/f12/your-guide-to-ammonia-toxicity-159994.html