API Quick Start Nitrifying Bacteria 237 ml

API Quick Start lets you add fish instantly by immediately starting the natural aquarium cycle with beneficial bacteria.

API Quick Start Nitrifying Bacteria 237 ml allows for the instant addition of fish, as it immediately starts the natural aquarium cycle with beneficial bacteria, which converts toxic ammonia into nitrite, then into harmless nitrate to help prevent fish loss in your tank. Best for use when starting a new aquarium, after water changes and filter changes, and when adding new fish to an existing aquarium. API QUICK START nitrifying bacteria may be used in both fresh and saltwater aquariums.

Add 10 ml. per 10 gallons of aquarium water.

Part of managing nitrate and phosphate levels — see our guide to Nitrate & Phosphate for why these two parameters are tracked together.

Compatibility

Freshwater and saltwater both. API's claim for it is that fish can go in immediately after dosing a new tank, and that in an established tank it keeps the biological filter topped up after the events that knock it back — a filter clean, a medication course, a big water change.

It is a bacterial product, so treat it the way you treat any bacteria: it does not survive a dose of antibacterial medication, and there is no point adding it the same day.

Dosage & Directions

• Freshwater: 10 ml per 38 litres (API's figure: 2 teaspoons per 10 US gallons)
• Saltwater: double that — 20 ml per 38 litres

Dose when you start an aquarium, when you add fish, when you change water or filter media, after a course of medication, and any time a test shows ammonia or nitrite.

The 237 ml bottle is about 23 freshwater doses, so roughly 900 litres of treated water.

Freshness & Storage

Every batch we dispatch carries a minimum of 6 months' remaining shelf life. Store this product in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, with the cap or inner foil closed tightly after each use.

Returns & Replacement

Returns are accepted within 7 days of delivery, provided the item is unused and in its original packaging. Manufacturer-sealed items cannot be returned once the seal is broken, and sale-priced items are not refundable.

If your item arrives defective or damaged, message us on WhatsApp with your order number — or email us, if you would rather — and we will replace it. Approved replacements are delivered within 3 to 5 business days. Transit damage is covered by insurance on every shipment. If tracking shows delivered but nothing reached you, tell us within 72 hours, which is the reporting window Indian couriers allow. Damage caused during installation or use is not covered; replacement spares for such cases are chargeable.

Full terms are on our Cancellation & Returns page.