Waterbox Starter Bacteria is a concentrated blend of beneficial nitrifying bacteria made for saltwater and reef aquariums. A single drop seeds your live rock, sand, and filtration with the microbes that convert toxic ammonia and nitrite into safer nitrate, building the biological foundation a marine tank needs before you add fish and corals. Ideal for new setups, after large water changes, or following any treatment that disrupts your bacteria. Round out your build from our full range of saltwater supplies. Key Benefits Establishes biological filtration in new saltwater and reef tanks Converts toxic ammonia and nitrite into safer nitrate Highly concentrated, just one drop treats 25 gallons Supports a smooth, low stress cycle before adding livestock and corals Safe for fish-only, FOWLR, and reef systems How to Use Shake well before each use. Add 1 drop per 100 L (25 gal) daily for the first 14 days of cycling. For a fishless cycle, add a small amount of fish food as the ammonia source and let the bacteria naturally colonize your rock, sand, and filter media without stressing livestock. Test regularly for ammonia and nitrite, and continue until both read zero. Specifications Brand Waterbox Aquariums Form Concentrated liquid nitrifying bacteria Volume 50 mL (1.7 fl oz) Water type Saltwater and reef Dose 1 drop per 100 L (25 gal) daily for the first 14 days Reef safe Yes Best for New tanks, post water change, after treatments Recommended Pairings Brightwell MicroBacter Dry Rock Starter Kit or FritzZyme TurboStart 900 for a heavier bacterial boost Dr. Tim's One & Only Saltwater as an alternative live bacteria Browse all saltwater supplies and corals Frequently Asked Questions How is 50 mL enough to cycle a tank? This formula is highly concentrated, dosing at just one drop per 25 gallons per day, so the dropper bottle treats many cycles. Is it reef safe? Yes. It is safe for fish-only, FOWLR, and full reef systems with fish and corals. Do I need to refrigerate it? Store at room temperature out of direct sun and use before the date on the bottle. Shake well before every dose.
