Brightwell Aquatics MicroBacter Start XLF Freshwater Aquarium Starter, 2 L Concentrate

Brightwell Aquatics MicroBacter Start XLF is a 15X-concentrated live-bacteria starter for establishing nitrifying filtration in freshwater aquariums, supplied in a 2 L bottle.

• Live non-pathogenic microbes and enzymes — support the biological processes that reduce organic nitrogen, ammonia and nitrite.
• Cycles a freshwater aquarium in 5 to 7 days in most cases — helps establish filtration in new setups.
• Made for new and existing freshwater systems — supports startup and nitrification in aquariums of all types.
• Useful for high-population aquariums and when adding fish — helps establish nitrifying bacteria as tank conditions change.
• Supports bacterial recovery after surface cleaning or medication use — helps re-establish nitrification.

Starting a freshwater aquarium, adding fish or recovering a disrupted filter can leave the biological filtration needing support. MicroBacter Start XLF uses live microbes and enzymes to help establish or restore nitrifying activity, including in established freshwater systems.

How does MicroBacter Start XLF support freshwater filtration?

Its concentrated, selective blend of live microbes and enzymes promotes nitrifying biological filtration and rapidly reduces organic nitrogen, ammonia and nitrite. This action helps improve water quality and accelerate aquarium cycling; the product also helps prevent New Tank Syndrome.

• The bacterial suspension is formulated for freshwater ecosystems.
• A proprietary base provides for maximum product longevity.

When is this aquarium starter useful?

Use it when setting up a new freshwater aquarium or to help re-establish nitrifying bacteria after an aquarium upset, including when a filter has been inadvertently killed. It is also useful in densely populated aquariums, when adding new fish, and after cleaning rocks and other surfaces or using medications. During aquarium upsets, the product may be dosed at up to five times its rated dosage.

• Shake well immediately before use.
• Do not add another bacteria product until the cycle with MicroBacter Start XLF is complete; other bacteria species are incompatible during this period and can significantly lengthen cycling time.

What should I expect during use, and how should I store it?

Clumps in the bottle, an earthy or unusual smell, and cloudy aquarium water can occur after use. These effects come from the bacteria and may persist for many hours. Regular partial water changes remain necessary to maintain element concentrations that support aquarium inhabitants over time.

• For best longevity and potency, store below 80°F (27°C); refrigeration at 50°F (10°C) is preferred when possible.
• Do not freeze the product, because freezing can kill the bacteria.

MicroBacter Start XLF suits freshwater aquarium keepers establishing a new biological filter or supporting nitrification after changes to the system. Its concentrated live-microbe and enzyme formula is designed for freshwater cycling and bacterial recovery.