Brightwell Aquatics MicroBacter Clean 500ml

Overview

MicrōBacterCLEAN is a complex system of non-pathogenic microbes and natural enzymes formulated to clean aquarium live rock and decorations. It is widely used by professionals to combat the "ugly stage"—the period following the initial cycling phase when the aquarium begins to stabilize and accumulate unwanted organic material. By preventing much of the unsightly buildup that typically occurs, MicrōBacterCLEAN ensures a cleaner and healthier aquatic environment.

For optimal results, it is recommended to start an aquarium with MicrōBacterStart XLM and then transition to MicrōBacterCLEAN after the cycling phase. This ensures a stable and efficient microbial environment that prevents the accumulation of unwanted organic waste.

Benefits

1. Cleans Aquarium Surfaces – Naturally cleans live rock, decorations, and substrate without the need for excessive manual maintenance.
2. Loosens Accumulated Waste – Makes removing unwanted deposits, coatings, and detritus easier through scraping and vacuuming.
3. Establishes Beneficial Bacteria – Supports the development of bacterial colonies that continue cleaning and maintaining water clarity.
4. Prevents "Ugly Stage" Issues – Helps avoid the common aesthetic and functional problems associated with the months following initial cycling.
5. Reduces Harmful Compounds – Rapidly decreases organic carbon, ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, and phosphate levels.
6. Breaks Down Organic Waste – Effectively digests uneaten food, fish waste, and detritus, leading to a healthier substrate without the need for physical disturbance.

Technical Background

The presence of dissolved and particulate organic materials in an aquarium significantly affects water clarity, odor, and overall health. In a well-maintained, low-nutrient system, water is clear, free of unpleasant odors, and devoid of unsightly deposits. Conversely, high-nutrient environments often result in murky water, foul smells, and unwanted coatings on surfaces, which can be detrimental to aquarium inhabitants.

MicrōBacterCLEAN is a carefully designed blend of microbes and enzymes that target and reduce these issues. It lowers the concentration of nitrogen, phosphorus, ammonia, nitrite, nitrate, and organic carbon, making maintenance easier by loosening accumulated waste. Unlike chemical treatments, MicrōBacterCLEAN provides a biological solution, ensuring long-term stability and improved aquarium aesthetics.

Effects on Aquarium Systems

• Improves water clarity and eliminates unwanted organic coatings.
• Reduces dependency on frequent manual cleaning.
• Enhances biological filtration efficiency.
• Supports the long-term health of fish, corals, and other invertebrates by minimizing exposure to harmful waste compounds.

Usage Notes

• It is normal for clumps to form in the product and for both the aquarium and product to have an earthy or "off" smell after use. This indicates the presence of beneficial bacteria.
• The water may turn cloudy for several hours after dosing, which is a sign of bacterial activity.
• MicrōBacterCLEAN does not require refrigeration, but storing it in a cool, shaded area or at 50°F (10°C) will extend its shelf life. Avoid heat exposure!

Instructions & Guidelines

General Application Steps:

1. Shake Well Before Use – Ensure the bacteria are evenly distributed.
2. Prepare the Mixture – Mix the appropriate volume of MicrōBacterCLEAN (see dosage below) with 250 mL (~8 fl. oz.) of aquarium water in a clean container before adding it to the tank.
3. Avoid Contamination – If using a pipette, rinse thoroughly with fresh water before placing it back into the bottle.
4. Add to Biological Filtration System – For best results, introduce the mixture into the external filtration system (e.g., filter media, sump).
5. Turn Off Skimmers & UV Sterilizers – Disable these for 4 hours after dosing to allow the bacteria to establish themselves.
6. Continue Regular Maintenance – Keep up with vacuuming, purified water additions, and controlled nutrient input to ensure sustained benefits.

Dosage Recommendations

For Regular Maintenance & Cleaning:

• Weekly Dose: Add 20 mL (4 capfuls) per 25 US gallons (94.6 L) (~16 drops per gallon).

For Problem Aquariums & Accelerated Cleaning:

1. Day 1: Add 30 mL (6 capfuls) per 25 US gallons (94.6 L) (~24 drops per gallon).
2. Following Days: Add 5 mL (1 capful) per 25 US gallons (94.6 L) daily (~4 drops per gallon) for at least 2 weeks or until the desired cleanliness is achieved.

Additional Usage Considerations

• Compatible with Razor Marine™: If using both MicrōBacterCLEAN and Razor Marine™, add MicrōBacterCLEAN first and wait a few hours before introducing Razor Marine™.
• Patience is Required: Bacteria work gradually, and full results may take 8 to 10 weeks in long-neglected systems. Early judgment (within the first 3 weeks) may underestimate the product's effectiveness.

Caution & Safety

• Keep out of reach of children.
• Not intended for human consumption.

Ingredients

• Purified water
• Proprietary blend of natural enzymes
• Non-pathogenic, beneficial microorganisms