Waterbox Aquariums
Freshwater Starter Bacteria
Estimated Shipping & Lead Times
In Stock Aquariums: Typically ship in 1–3 business days.
Backordered systems: Most orders ship within 4–6 weeks, though some may ship sooner depending on inbound inventory.
Estimates are based on business days and may vary during holidays, carrier capacity surges, weather, or port/cargo delays. You’ll receive tracking as soon as your items depart. Some orders may ship in multiple boxes or partial shipments.
See our home delivery options in our Shipping Policy.
Jumpstart your freshwater aquarium with a stable biological foundation.
Waterbox Freshwater Starter Bacteria is a concentrated blend of beneficial nitrifying microbes formulated to quickly establish your aquarium’s biological filtration system. These bacteria rapidly colonize filter media and substrate, converting toxic ammonia and nitrite into the less harmful nitrate—creating a safe, balanced environment for fish and plants.
Ideal for new aquariums, after large water changes, or following treatments that may disrupt bacterial populations, Freshwater Starter Bacteria speeds up the nitrogen cycle, reduces fish stress, and helps prevent dangerous water quality fluctuations during the setup phase.
Key Benefits:
• Rapidly establishes biological filtration in new aquariums
• Converts toxic ammonia and nitrite into safer nitrate
• Reduces fish stress and mortality during cycling
• Helps stabilize water quality after treatments or water changes
• Safe for all freshwater fish and planted aquariums
Directions for Use:
Use 10 ml per 100 L (25 gal) daily during the first two weeks of cycling your aquarium.
Shake well before each use. Test water regularly for ammonia and nitrite levels.