How reliable is API 5 in 1 Test Strips?

**dnsfpl** · 24th Sep 2010, 12:17

based on the test result
TANK GH 30 KH 30 pH 6.5 NO2 5 NO3 20
TAP GH 30 KH 60 pH 7.5 NO2 3 NO3 0

some of my weaker shrimps should be dead if NO2 is 5ppm
sadly, i dont have another test kit to counter check
anyone encountered similar issue with API 5 in 1 Test Strips?

thanks

**Navanod** · 24th Sep 2010, 14:02

Hi bro, I used up an entire box before and it is on the whole only useful to detect abnormally high GH, nitrite and nitrate. Accuracy is poor, especially if you run water over it or dip it into the water as the colors will run.
In the end, I used a dropper to drip on each of the pads and make sure it soaks the pads without dripping off.

Use it as a regular screening tool if you are lazy to use the titration/colormatric kits everytime. If something looks wrong on the strips, then bring out the actual kits to reconfirm

NO2 is bad news for shrimps bro...is the tank cycled?