Managing an aquarium is not an easy task. You have to keep it clean and ensure a better watery environment for the little fishes in the tank. The water you are keeping in the aquarium tank is very essential to be cleaned and immaculate. So, you cannot rely on tap water at all. Getting worried about it? Relax, I have an amazing solution to this problem and now I am talking about the best Aquarium bacteria starter.
The bacterial starter is a product made of some essential natural elements like aloe vera, the extract of different natural substances, and even some beneficial bacteria. It helps to destroy algae, fungus, and harmful bacteria. At the same time, it helps to create a clean and supportive environment for the fish. That’s why it’s often called water enhancers or cleaning agents.
Hopefully, you have understood why you should use a bacteria starter. Let’s get introduced to the 7 best aquarium bacteria starters first. After that, I’ll include some essential facts you should learn about a bacteria starter.
7 Best Aquarium Bacteria Starter
I have added brief details of each of these 7 bacteria starters so that you can find out the appropriate one for your Aquarium. Let’s have a glance over these used water enhancers for Aquariums.
1. API Stress Coat Water Conditioner
Firstly, I would like to recommend API Stress Coat Bacteria Starter. It would be a nice pick if you want to ensure the most suitable watery environment for your little fishes. API’s Aquarium kits are well known and this product is known as the best Aquarium Bacteria Starter. I suggest having a look over the brief details of this product and clear all your confusion.
Product size and weight
A safe environment is mandatory to keep your aquarium fish safe and healthy. API Stress Coat water conditioner measures 5×1×5 inches. The water conditioner is only 6.4 Ounces.
When to Use
This Water Conditioner helps to keep the aquarium tank clean and maintains good water quality. The water needs to check its toxic level twice in a week. So it is good if the conditioner is used twice in a week. In addition, the conditioner is mandatory to use before adding fish, changing the water, or after medicating.
Water Types
API Stress Water Conditioner is tested and safe for saltwater and tap water. There might be a variation of the aquarium fishes and every fish does not belong to the salty environment. But this product easily adjusts with both saltwater or freshwater. And it heals the tissue damage and other difficulties of any kind of water creature.
Ingredients
Most of the fish handlers suggest using an API water conditioner because of its natural elements. The conditioner is made with aloe vera which helps to recover the damaged tissue of the aquatic creature. It is great to use for tissue regeneration. Since aloe vera is a kind of plant species so it doesn’t cause any injury to the fishes.
Direction
An API water conditioner is used 5ml per 10 gallons of aquarium water. In addition, it needs to use a double dose to repair the damaged skins or fins. To maintain good water quality, one can use the STRESS COAT together with API STRESS ZYME.
Pros
- The conditioner is made with Aloe vera which ensures the safety of aquatic creatures.
- It maintains a healthy environment for any kind of tropical fish.
- API water conditioner removes all sorts of toxic objects and it helps to refill the oxygen available to fish.
- There’s no need to give much time to scrub the tank because of its usefulness.
Cons
- Nothing very serious has been found on this product.
Our Thoughts on API Stress Coat Water Conditioner
Did you check out the advantages of this bacteria starter? People didn’t call it the best Aquarium bacteria starter for no reason and I think you have already learned the reasons. It is safe and ensures a calm environment inside the aquarium tank.
All-natural elements are used to form this bacteria starter and there are no possible ways to harm the environment of your beloved fishes. Moreover, it is a budget-friendly bacteria starter that you can use for any watery creature. So, you can definitely try it.
2. Instant Ocean BIO-Spira Water Treatment for Aquariums
You can also try Instant Ocean BIO-Spira Water Treatment. This manufacturing brand is also very popular and its Aquarium kits are quite well-known. And this water treatment is known as the best aquarium starter. You can check out details of this supportive bacteria starter by having a glance at the below features.
Product Size and Weight
Instant Ocean BIO-Spira Water conditioner measures 1.63×3 ×7 inches in size. Again the product is only 10.14 Ounces which is quite light-weighted.
Using Direction
BIO-Spira Water Treat is mainly adjustable for saltwater aquariums. The shelf-stable of this product demands no refrigeration. You just need to mix 5mL in 10 gallons of water. Also, you can add this entire conditioner in 75 gallons of water. Besides, it won’t cause any problem if you mix this conditioner with tap water.
Ingredients
This water conditioner creates a better aquatic environment for the fishes and other small creatures. And it goes well with all life stages. BIO-Spira includes live nitrifying bacteria and that decreases dangerous ammonia and nitrite in the water. The conditioner is mixed with enterococcus, Nitrosomonas, nitrosospira along with nitrospira. Nitrospira is proved to work very effectively.
When To Use It
Generally, BIO-Spira is used after changing the water, adding new fish, or after meditating. Since the aquarium water needs to be balanced with the Marine environment so it is good to use it for the very first time before adding the fish.
Storing
The product can be stored at any temperature. But make sure that you need to turn off UV sterilizers and protein skimmers for 48 hours while mixing the conditioner.
Pros
- The product is tested safe and healthy for all the aquatic life.
- It easily adjusts with all life stages.
- The conditioner requires no refrigeration.
- BIO-Spira accelerates a biofilter which reduces the harmful level of ammonia and nitrate.
- The mixed ingredients are proven to work for better aquatic creatures.
Cons
- If you have a 20-gallon aquarium tank then you can not use the product more than 4 times.
Our Thoughts on Instant Ocean BIO-Spira Water Treatment for Aquariums
You can definitely try this bacteria starter if you want a budget-friendly one with all-natural elements. Think about the price? Don’t worry, it’s not a pricey one.
Apart from that, people know it as the best Aquarium bacteria starter for its instant water cleaning techniques. Yet, it is safe for any type of watery animal. So, why not you try it?
3. Hagen Fluval Biological Enhancer for Aquariums
You can try Hagen Fluval Biological Enhancer if you have a medium-size tank. This product is quite familiar as the best aquarium bacteria starter because of its elements that easily removes toxic ammonia and nitrate. If you are interested in it, I suggest learning a brief detail I have added here for you.
Product Size and Weight
The dimension of Hagen Fluval Biological Enhancer is 3×3×6.5 inches in size and the product weight is 15.52 ounce.
Using Direction
In the case of the medium-size tank, you need to drop a few drops of this conditioner. Also, the regular application prevents unwanted bacteria in the medium. But it is mandatory to use during water changing and filter media changing.
Ingredients
The water conditioner includes a massive amount of beneficial bacteria and that removes all the toxic ammonia and nitrate.
For All Kind of Water
Hagen Fluval water conditioner is largely used in both fresh and saltwater. The product is adjustable with almost all water types.
Effectiveness
The conditioner infuses a large number of bacteria that ensure the biological balance inside the aquarium. It is also effective while setting up a new aquarium or adding new fish.
Pros
- The water conditioner helps to create a safe environment and prevents fish loss.
- Fluva Hagen eliminates toxic ammonia and nitrate.
- Biofloc technology makes sure the product’s permanency and separates all the contaminates.
Cons
- The temperature might cause trouble in the case of nitrifying bacteria.
Our Thoughts on Hagen Fluval Biological Enhancer for Aquariums
Just keep this water enhancer in your refrigerator. It will be fresh for long. And then the cons won’t matter anymore. So, just focus on the beneficial sides only. I know you will understand the quality and all-natural elements’ advantages.
If you are thinking about the price, I must mention that it is quite a budget-friendly bacteria starter and it will help your watery pets to stay healthy and happy in the clean water.
4. Tetra SafeStart Plus To Cycle New Aquariums
Did you ever hear about Tetra’s Aquarium kits? If you are a fish pet person, I think you are familiar with this name. And now, I have the best Aquarium bacteria starter from Tetra to introduce you with. It is Tetra SafeStart Plus To Cycle New Aquariums. You can check out the features, in short, to be more specific about this product.
Product Size and Weight
Tetra SafeStart Plus measures 1.63×3×7 inches in size and it contains 8.45 Ounce bacteria starter.
Direction
You have to mix a few drops of this bacteria starter with the water of your aquarium tank. You should use it when you are adding new water or new fishes to the water. Besides, you can use it when you are changing the water of the aquarium too.
Ingredients
An appropriate amount of beneficial bacteria is included in the water conditioner that ensures a safe and healthy environment for the fish. Live nitrifying bacteria are also added for the betterment of aquatic life.
Effective Result
For a quick result, bacteria are seeded from the beginning and one dose includes a complete filter bed of bacteria. These bacteria work very fast to destroy all the ammonia and nitrate. The conditioner also helps to prevent new tank syndrome and that ensures the fish’s safety.
Pros
- SafeStart is adjustable with all life stages of aquatic creatures.
- The product gives outstanding performance to prevent all the hazardous elements in the water.
- Refrigeration is not compulsory because of the Shelf-stable formula.
- Adding a few drops of SafeStart ensures a safe environment for your fish.
Cons
- Since the water conditioner is only 250 mL and If you have a 20-gallon aquarium tank then you can not use the conditioner more than two times.
Our Thoughts on Tetra SafeStart Plus To Cycle New Aquariums
I will recommend this excellent bacteria starter especially if you are going to install a new Aquarium tank. This bacteria starter is also made of natural and chemical-free elements. So, any type of watery animal will stay calm in the water.
Apart from that, it is a quite budget-friendly product that works as good as any expensive one. So, if you think that all its beneficial sides are sufficient to meet your need, just grab it before stocking it out.
5. API Quick Start Nitrifying Bacteria Starter
If you are looking for the best aquarium bacteria starter for both fresh and saltwater, then I will recommend another product from API. And this time, I’ll talk about API Quick Start Nitrifying Bacteria Starter. With a minimal amount of beneficial bacteria mixed starter, it will help you to provide a clean environment inside the aquarium.
Product Size and Weight
It is a product of a 16-ounce starter. But with a bottle of 2.5 x 8.75 inches diameter, this product will come with a pound of weight. But you can buy the same product with a different amount.
Ingredients
The main ingredient of this product is some beneficial bacteria. It helps to increase the growth of helpful bacteria and reduce the growth of the harmful ones. Besides, other ingredients are also chemical-free and all-natural. So, you can use the product in your Aquarium without any doubt.
Using Direction
You can use just a few drops of this starter with your Aquarium water. You have to use it every time you will change the aquarium water, add new water, and add new fishes in the aquarium. You can store this product in any cold and dry place.
Effective Result
The result of using this useful water cleaning agent is very effective. It will keep the fish calm and healthy. Dirt and harmful bacteria will have vanished and the water will be super clear. And this water enhancer will ensure a better watery environment for your little fish pets.
For All Water Types
At the very beginning, I have mentioned that you can use this supportive bacteria starter with any type of water. So, you can use it with both freshwater and saltwater.
Pros
- This bacteria starter decreases harmful elements like toxic ammonia and nitrate.
- It is adjustable to all kinds of watery creatures.
- Just a few drops of this product is sufficient for your tank water.
- Get this API Quick Start enhancer with different amounts and sizes.
Cons
- You have switched off the skimmer for about an hour when you will use it.
Our Thoughts on API Quick Start Nitrifying Bacteria Starter
Again, I will remind you that you can use this bacteria starter for both freshwater and saltwater. So, if you have to use different types of water in your aquarium tank, then it will be the best option for you. Again, it’s a quite familiar product and you will get it on any market.
And one thing, I should remind you too is you should always turn off the skimmer and let it like that for an hour when you use any water enhancer. It reduces the risk of destroying the kit. So, give a think on this best aquarium bacteria starter before checking out the next one.
6. Seachem Stability Fish Tank Stabilizer
A fish tank needs to be ready for your fish and to do that grab a Seachem Stability Fish Tank Stabilizer. It comes with all the necessary guidelines needed for any kind of user. This fish tank stabilizer is safe and you will find lots of positive reviews from the users.
Size and Servings
It comes in a 500ml package. You must shake the bottle before using it. The servings size is 5ml per 80 liters of water. You might need to use more on the first day for a new aquarium.
Ingredients
This blend is made of natural and environmentally friendly ingredients. It is thoroughly inspected keeping the health issues and animal safety in mind.
Direction
To use it in a proper way, you will have to follow the instructions written on its bottle. For the first 7 days, you will have to use it every day. If you are using a 20-gallon fish tank, give 10ml on the first day, then use 5ml for the rest of 6 days.
Water Type
It suits all kinds of water. So, you can use it in freshwater or marine applications without any worries. It is completely biological and free of side effects.
Pros
- It is quite affordable and provides value for money.
- One 500ml sized bottle lasts for 8000 liters of water.
- Made with natural and harmless ingredients.
- Saves your fish from premature deaths.
- Easy to use.
- Supports most of the filters available in the market.
Cons
- No serious issues have been found so far.
Our thoughts on Seachem Stability Fish Tank Stabilizer
This is one of the most popular and well-reviewed water stabilizers you will find in the market. So, it is highly recommended for its rapid response rate to make a safe and suitable ecosystem for the water species.
You can also check the advantages twice to be more specific about it. Besides, it is quite a budget-friendly product. Because of its lower cost and excellent benefits, it is known as the best aquarium bacteria starter.
7. KloudAway Freshwater Aquarium Water Clarifier
KloudAway Freshwater Aquarium Water Clarifier is one of the most popular water stabilizers and cleaners for freshwater applications and it is totally made in the USA. It is known for its quality and easy applications. Use it with good filters and you will have quality time with your favorite fish.
Size and Weight
It comes in a 500ml tub that will last for approximately 1000 liters of freshwater. The bottle’s length is around 8.2 inches, so the shipping cost will be affordable.
Quick Response
This water clarifying blend works instantly and provides a fresh look to the aquarium in no time. It makes the pollutant particles large for gathering them with mechanical filters. So, you will need a good mechanical filter with this product.
Direction
Firstly, you will have to shake the bottle properly, then use 1 capful of liquid per 10 gallons of water. The cap holds approximately 5ml. You must keep the aquarium’s aeration and filtration system running for the best results.
Safety
KloudAway is safe for all types of freshwater species. It does not affect the beneficial bacteria and water plants. This is highly biological and safe for the ecosystem.
Efficiency
It works on floating particles and is capable of collecting both organic and inorganic waste. It is unable to clear water algae. So don’t expect it to clear the ‘green water’ conditions.
Pros
- Works quickly and does not hurt any water species.
- Good for beneficial bacteria and water quality.
- Easy application and maintenance procedures.
- Supports most of the 3rd party filters available in the market.
- It promotes healthy water flow.
Cons
- Not suitable for marine and saltwater applications.
Our thoughts on KloudAway Freshwater Aquarium Water Clarifier
We will suggest it to any freshwater aquarium user for its manifold benefits. It is also safe for fish and water plants. So, make your aquarium look more appealing and hygienic with KloudAway.
Besides, you will find it with a comparatively lower cost yet the list of benefits is quite rich. Again, its all-natural elements ensure an appropriate environment for all living watery animals. That’s why people call it the best Aquarium bacteria starter.
Buying Guides of Best Aquarium Bacteria Starter
Just as I do every time I share some product reviews with you, I am here acknowledging you with some essential factors you have to keep in mind before buying the best aquarium bacteria starter. Let’s have a look over the factors and make sure you are not forgetting any of these facts. Otherwise, you can end up buying the wrong bacteria starter for your aquarium.
Size of Your Tank
You have bought the bacteria supplement regarding the size of your tank. You know that there are different sizes of aquarium tanks. The bigger your tank is, the higher dosages you need to apply your bacteria starter in it.
So, check out the tank size and buy a bacteria starter that suits your tank well. I prefer buying a large size bacteria supplement so that you can use it for a long time.
Types of The Bacterial Starter
There are different types of bacteria starters or enhancers available in the market. To be more specific, there are 3 types of bacteria enhancers.
The most common type of bacteria starter is the aquarium bacteria contained in a bottle. This kind of enhancer generally includes live nitrifying bacteria like Nitrococcus, Nitrosomonas, Nitrosopita, Nitrospira, and different non-toxic substances. It is very effective and this type of enhancer is preferred to keep in a refrigerator.
The next type is the aquarium bacteria supplement. This type of bacteria enhancer is made of nitrifying bacteria, enzymes, and some natural substances. Generally, it comes either in the form of a tablet or in a liquid form stored in a bottle. This type of bacteria enhancer works as a water purifier and is good for the health of your fishes.
The final type is dry format bacteria and you get in a bottle too. It contains Nitrobacter and Nitrosomonas. And so, it also works as a water purifier. Also, it helps to transform ammonia to nitrite and nitrite to nitrate. As it is a kind of dry substance, it looks like powder. That’s why this powdered bacteria enhancer can be effective for so long.
Apart from these 3 types, there are also some other types of bacteria starters you can get in the market. But we prefer using the dry one or the first type which is mostly available.
New Aquarium Tank
If you have a new Aquarium tank, you have to buy a big size Aquarium starter. The filter of a new tank needs to have colonized bacteria. And if you don’t apply the bacteria starter so often, making colonized bacteria will be pretty hard. Experts suggest using a bacteria starter once in a week if you have a new Aquarium tank.
Types of Fishes
You can have different fishes and aquatic creatures like snakes, octopuses, turtles, squids, etc. And there are many bacteria starters that ain’t suitable for particular water creatures. Basically, low-quality bacteria enhancers come with that kind of restriction.
So, try to make sure that you are buying a good quality bacteria starter with all-natural elements. Because when it is natural and good in quality, it doesn’t contain a restriction on types of fishes and other aquatic inhabitants.
Water Types
You can use different types of water in your Aquarium and it depends on the types of fishes. If you are using sea fishes, you have to use salt water. Otherwise, freshwater is okay. But you have to keep it in your mind that you cannot mix any bacteria starter with any type of water.
Particular bacteria supplements are produced for specific types of water and you have to buy the right one reminding the type of water inside your Aquarium tank.
Price
Bacteria starters come with different specifications, sizes, ingredients, and amounts. So, the price varies from product to product. But you can get an ideal size Bateria starter from 10$ to 70$.
FAQ
Q: Why should I use a Bacteria Starter?
A: Keeping the Aquarium Water is very essential. Otherwise, dirt will mix with the water and create harmful bacteria, fungus, and algae. As a result, the water won’t be suitable for the fishes. It can be the cause of different fish diseases and make the water dirty as well. The water can also release a bad smell and change its color. So, the beauty of your Aquarium will be destroyed and the reason you are petting your fishes will be nipped in the bud too.
If you use a bacteria starter regularly, the water cannot get dirty so often. A good bacteria starter will decrease the growth of harmful substances and increase the number of beneficial bacteria. So, the environment inside the aquarium will be suitable for the fishes and they will stay healthy.
Q: How often should I use a Bacteria Starter?
A: You can use a Bacteria starter at least once in a month or two months. Besides, you have to use it every time you add new water and change the water of the tank. Also, you have to add a few drops of bacteria starter when you bring new fishes and keep them inside the tank.
If you are using a new Aquarium tank, you have to use your bacteria starter once a week. It will help the beneficial bacteria to grow and also colonize the filter’s media.
Q: Where can I find a bacteria starter?
A: You can find a bacteria starter on any local market where an Aquarium kit and fishes are available. Also, you can buy it from any authentic online market.
Q: Should I remove filter socks or turn off the skimmer when mixing bacteria starter with the aquarium water?
A: You should let the skimmer off for at least an hour and a maximum of 2 hours after using your bacteria starter. It helps to allow maximum filtration through the media which is quite essential.
Q: What kind of ingredients are good for a bacteria starter?
A: All-natural ingredients can only make a good bacteria starter. It should be free of harmful chemicals and poisonous substances like parmesan and blessing agents. Natural and beneficial bacteria are used to make an effective bacteria starter.
Q: Which is the best Aquarium bacteria starter for both freshwater and saltwater?
A: API Quick Start Nitrifying Bacteria Starter is the best Aquarium bacteria starter for both freshwater and saltwater.
Final Verdict
There is no doubt that keeping your Aquarium water clean and starling is a must to keep the fishes healthy. And there is no other easy way to do so except using the best aquarium bacteria starter. And I have introduced you to 7 of them. So, check the details and further info I have already shared, to find out the appropriate bacteria starter for your Aquarium.
Share your confusion and questions about today’s discussion if you have any. We just want to encourage people to pet fish in aquariums and so, you try our best to help you with all the necessary information and guidance. Wish you the best of your luck with a better fish petting experience. Thanks a million, folds for staying with us.
Hello there, I’m Pavel, and I’ve been deeply immersed in the captivating world of fishkeeping for over 12 years. My journey began with a single tank, and since then, my love for aquatic life has only grown stronger. My heart beats for bettas and goldfish, as I’ve spent countless hours understanding their unique behaviors and requirements.
But fishkeeping isn’t just a hobby for me – it’s a passion that has led me to explore the art of aquascaping. Through this creative outlet, I transform ordinary tanks into breathtaking underwater landscapes, merging the beauty of nature with the intricacies of aquarium care.