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Fish continually release ammonia directly into the aquarium through their gills, urine and solid waste. Uneaten food and decaying organic matter also add ammonia to the water. A natural mechanism exists that controls ammonia in aquariums - the biological filter. It is made up of nitrifying bacteria. However, as with any natural process, imbalances can occur. Testing for the presence of toxic ammonia is is essential. Ammonia in the aquarium may damage gill membranes and prevent fish from carrying on normal respiration. High levels of ammonia quickly lead to fish death. Even trace amounts stress fish., suppressing their immune system and thereby increasing the likelihood of disease outbreaks and subsequent fish loss.