Will Copper Interfere With In-Tank Ammonia Alert “Patch”?

Kengar · 05/25/2019, 10:44 AM

Given what I’ve read re copper killing off live rock bacteria — the primary source of ammonia breakdown in my QT — I want to use one of those in-tank patches you mount to the glass (Seachem ammonia alert) to keep on top of ammonia. Will copper (cupramine) interfere with performance of the alert indicator?

Thanks

lagatbezan · 05/25/2019, 01:49 PM

No it shouldn't. It's actually the best way to keep an eye on ammonia while treating with copper. Most other tests tend to give a false reading when copper is present.
I personally use them all the time in my qt.

HumbleFish · 05/25/2019, 07:16 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by lagatbezan

no it shouldn't. It's actually the best way to keep an eye on ammonia while treating with copper. Most other tests tend to give a false reading when copper is present.
I personally use them all the time in my qt.

+1

05/25/2019, 10:44 AM	#1
Kengar Registered Member Join Date: Sep 2000 Location: Gaithersburg, MD (D.C. Metro Area) Posts: 1,970	Will Copper Interfere With In-Tank Ammonia Alert “Patch”? Given what I’ve read re copper killing off live rock bacteria — the primary source of ammonia breakdown in my QT — I want to use one of those in-tank patches you mount to the glass (Seachem ammonia alert) to keep on top of ammonia. Will copper (cupramine) interfere with performance of the alert indicator? Thanks __________________ Resident Patent Attorney

05/25/2019, 01:49 PM	#2
lagatbezan Registered Member Join Date: Nov 2004 Location: Long Island, NY Posts: 1,109	No it shouldn't. It's actually the best way to keep an eye on ammonia while treating with copper. Most other tests tend to give a false reading when copper is present. I personally use them all the time in my qt. __________________ Ryan. 300g with velocity t4 for return and a Reflo dart on a closed loop, T5 lights & SRO3000 skimmer. Current Tank Info: 300g