Nitrogen cycle is the most important part of setting up your new tank before you get your fish home. Often we are in the misconception of just introducing the fish straight to the tank filled with water. But there is more to it.
Why is cycling so important? Fish waste and excretion release ammonia into the water column and ammonia kills fish. Bacteria within the filter media will convert this ammonia to nitrite which is even more toxic than ammonia. Fortunately another type of bacteria in the filter will consume the nitrites and convert them into nitrates. Nitrates are not toxic to your fish at low levels. To put it simply, Ammonia (toxic) is converted to nitrite (toxic) is then converted to nitrate (non-toxic). This process will only happen after cycling.
This is why cycling the tank is so important, it produces bacteria in the filter that will support your fish economy by neutralizing their waste and making the aquarium habitable. Interestingly higher concentrations of nitrates are not healthy for your fish either. Too higher levels will lead to loss of colour/appetite and also algae blooms. Water changes are an important part of aquarium care and will prevent high buildup of nitrate.
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