Ammonia is passed from the gills of fish in their urine, also rotting food and decaying plant matter are contributors of ammonia. It exists in two forms in the aquarium and the first step is to understand the difference between ammonium NH4 and free ammonia NH3. NH3 (ammonia) is a gas and sometimes called toxic or free ammonia. It is the unionised form of NH4. NH4 (ammonium) is a nontoxic salt it is the ionised form of ammonia. NH3 and NH4 together are often refered to as total ammonia nitrogen (TAN). So as you can see from above NH3 is the nasty toxic element that needs monitoring.
Dr. Gary Gilcrease, MD is a Doctor primarily located in Kyle, TX. He has 23 years of experience. His specialties include Family Medicine. Dr. Gilcrease is affiliated with Seton Medical Center Austin and St David's Medical Center. He speaks English.
Dr. Fred Schultz is an obstetrician-gynecologist in Brownwood, Texas and is affiliated with multiple hospitals in the area, including Brownwood Regional Medical Center and Fort Duncan Regional Medical Center. He received his medical degree from University of Texas Southwestern Medical School and has been in practice for more than 20 years. He is one of 3 doctors at Brownwood Regional Medical Center and one of 4 at Fort Duncan Regional Medical Center who specialize in Obstetrics & Gynecology.