ammonia neutralizing crystals

Question
I am having a hard time finding out exactly what are ammonia neutralzing crystals.

I was able to find out the main ingrediants of pH up and pH down, but absolutely nothing about these crystals...

Do you know?

Thanks, JM

Answer
Hi JM

ammonia neutralizing crystals are a filter additive that claim to neutralize ammonia. In short, they do nothing to ammonia. All they are good for is making money for the pet stores. The only way to control high ammonia is with water changes of 20% to 50% depending on how high the ammonia content is. Your filter should contain an activated carbon cartridge which should be replaced once a month. Other than these cartridges and water conditioner, you should not be adding any other chemicals to your tank.

Hope this helps you good luck!

Richard