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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/fish-test-kit-total-ammonia

What do most aquarium ammonia test kits actually measure?

Total ammonia, both the toxic and the less toxic forms together.

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  1. Only the toxic un-ionized ammonia
  2. Total ammonia, both forms together ✔
  3. Only nitrate

Why: Kits read total ammonia nitrogen (TAN). To know how much is the toxic form, you also need the pH and temperature.

Huh, didn't know that: A good ammonia test kit includes a TAN test, a pH test and a thermometer.

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References

Answer: Total ammonia, both forms together. Kits read total ammonia nitrogen (TAN). To know how much is the toxic form, you also need the pH and temperature.

  1. UF/IFAS Extension FA031: Ammonia in Aquatic Systems edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/FA031
    Most commercial ammonia test kits measure the total ammonia nitrogen (TAN)
    Checked 2026-10-11.
  2. UF/IFAS Extension FA031: Ammonia in Aquatic Systems edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/FA031
    a good ammonia test kit will include a TAN test, a pH test, and a thermometer.
    Checked 2026-10-11.

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