Nitrites

What is it?

Nitrites (NO2) represent Nitrogen in a specific form during the nitrogen life-cycle. Nitrogen compounds dissolved in water are an important class of plant nutrients.

What do I need to know?

Levels over 1 mg/L are considered dangerous
It is natural to have some nitrites in water
High levels could indicate runoff from nitrate fertilizers used in agriculture
Nitrites versus nitrates is dependent on how much dissolved oxygen is there
High levels causes extra plant growth, which then chokes out fish (because it causes lowered oxygen)

Nitrogen cycle — Nitrogen comes in many forms, and is an integral part to life.