Colony Rapid Cycle SW

RAPID CYCLE SPECIALIST

The Blue Shark team has more experience producing and distributing true nitrifying bacteria than anyone else.  That’s why Colony is the most used and trusted tank cycling product on Earth.

Colony establishes nitrification in days instead of weeks.

NITRIFYING BACTERIA: MARINE SPECIES

Nitrosococcus and Nitrococcus are considered true nitrifying bacteria because they directly perform the essential steps of the nitrogen cycle in marine aquariums: Nitrosococcus converts toxic ammonia into nitrite, and Nitrococcus then converts nitrite into less harmful nitrate. These bacteria are obligate chemolithotrophs, meaning they derive their energy exclusively from oxidizing inorganic compounds—ammonia and nitrite, respectively—making them uniquely suited for biological filtration in aquatic environments. Blue Shark Colony contains concentrated cultures of these true nitrifiers, which allows for rapid colonization of new aquariums. When introduced, these bacteria quickly establish the biological filtration necessary to process waste, resulting in a much faster cycle compared to relying on natural bacterial growth or other bacterial blends.

In contrast to Nitrosococcus and Nitrococcus, some commercial aquarium products now include “spira” strains (such as Nitrospira), which are also capable of nitrification but are comparatively slower-growing and less efficient under cycling conditions.  True nitrifiers like Nitrosococcus and Nitrococcus are superior for rapid cycling because they are adapted to higher ammonia levels and can reproduce quickly in new tanks, making them the preferred choice for Blue Shark.

USE

  To rapidly establish bio-filtration in new aquariums

  After medicating

  When adding new livestock

  Replacing media

Instructions:

Maintain average water temperatures of 23-30°C (74-86°F). For best results, maintain a pH between 7.9–8.3.  Always maintain a minimum 90 ppm Total Alkalinity.  Shake bottle vigorously to mix bacteria. For average water conditions add 118 ml (4 oz) of Colony Marine per 45 L 12 gal) of dechlorinated aquarium water (tap water recommended). Dose entire system volume once. Do not overcrowd tank. Prevent ammonia and nitrite spikes by feeding fish lightly when applying Colony.  Monitor ammonia and nitrite levels and slightly increase feeding rate after 4 consecutive days of at, or near, 0 ppm ammonia and nitrite concentrations. Gradually increase to normal feeding levels.

NOTE:  Turn off or unplug UV sterilizers, protein skimmers, and ozone generators prior to and 4-5 days after each introduction of Colony Marine. Keep at room temperature and do not allow product to freeze or exceed 43°C (110°F). No water changes until after the fourth day when all bacteria has attached.

While not recommended, for fish-less cycling never use more than .5 ppm of ammonia to start; This is to ensure nitrite levels stay well below the desired levels for a successful rapid cycle.

No refrigeration required. Keep out of reach of children.  Colony has a shelf life of 12 months.