luchy tusi

Nitrogen is a macroelement, it makes about 1.5% of a dry plant. Nitrate is a component of proteins, nucleic acid and chlorophyll. Nitrate is a mobile element (can transfer from one part of the plant to another), therefore symptoms of its deficiency occur in older leaves first. Plants absorb nitrate in the form of ions NO3-, NO2-, NH4+ and urea. Water plants absorb nitrate first of all in the form of ammonium cation, as its absorption requires the least energy. Ions NH4+, however, are toxic for fish and stimulate the growth of many algae therefore are not recommended for use in planted aquariums. The most commonly used source of nitrate is KNO3 Potassium Nitrate. The recommended level of nitrates is 5-30 ppm. The nitrate level needs to be monitored regularly (at least in the first few months since the aquarium’s set up).