what is that chemical that goldfish gove off? ammonia or nitrates, or both??

Question

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Answer 1

Goldfish (and all animals) produce ammonia. Nitrifying bacteria convert that into (also toxic) nitrites. Another type of nitrifying bacteria convert the nitrites into far less toxic nitrates. In a fishtank, those are removed through weekly water changes, and some are absorbed by plants.

Answer 2

goldfish, and fish in general create ammonia natrually. Nitrates and nitrites are by products of broken down ammonia. This is a cycle, ammonia is the first product and then followed by the nitrates and nitrites. Each chemical or element that is the by product is less and less dangerous to the fish, however you should make it a point to elminate all the chemcials/elements. You have "good bacteria" in your tank that is called the biological filter. This "filter" or "bacteria" eat the ammonia and other chemicals and break them down. This is why pet stores recommend you get a "starter" for your tank. the starters include the benifical bacteria you need to jump start the tank's biological filter.

Now this doesn't mean you don't need an acutal filter, as a filter also helps to remove the chemicals, medication, and clean the water/trap excess food.

Answer 3

Ammonia. Its from the excess ammount of waste they produce.