Enables rapid stocking of new aquariums by instantly establishing the biological filter.
New aquarium filters lack the beneficial bacteria that remove harmful ammonia and nitrite. If the aquarium is stocked too rapidly, this can lead to New Tank Syndrome, with fish being harmed by high levels of pollutants. Because of this, traditionally it has been necessary to stock the aquarium slowly over a period of many weeks.
Recent advances in technology have enabled Tetra to identify and patent the bacteria responsible for ammonia and nitrite removal in aquariums - Nitrospira, Nitrosospira, and Nitrosomonas. These bacteria are included in high concentrations in SafeStart, and when added to a new aquarium instantly establish the biological activity of the filter. They are not present in any other product, and so only SafeStart can guarantee the rapid establishment of the filter, and therefore allow the immediate introduction of fish.
Application
When setting up a new aquarium: Set the aquarium up and turn on all equipment. Wait at least 24hrs to ensure that the equipment is working correctly, and to allow the aquarium to reach the correct temperature. Then add 5ml of SafeStart per 6 litres of water, at the same time as adding the fish. We recommend a stocking level of adult fish equivalent to 1cm per litre. This refers to the eventual size of the fish, not the size when they are added (e.g. a 5cm Goldfish is equivalent to at least 10cm when adult).
As a precaution, in the two weeks following the introduction of the fish, we recommend regularly testing the ammonia and nitrite level using TetraTest kits. If levels rise, perform a partial water change using Tetra AquaSafe to reduce them.
Following filter maintenance, water quality problems, or water changes: Add 5ml of SafeStart per 6 litres of water, following any aquarium maintenance.
If storing SafeStart, keep between 10°C & 30°C. Aquarium water must be 20°C (room temperature) or above. Shelf-life of 12 months.
Download SafeStart brochure
