Bacteria 101

Basic knowledge

What is Photosynthesis?

Photosynthesis is a natural process used by plants, algae, and certain bacteria, including photosynthetic bacteria (PSB), to convert light energy, usually from the sun, into chemical energy stored in glucose (a type of sugar). During this process, these organisms absorb carbon dioxide (CO2) from the air and water (H2O) from their environment, using sunlight as their energy source. The end products of photosynthesis are oxygen, which is released into the atmosphere, and glucose, which provides energy for the plant or bacteria and serves as a building block for growing. This fundamental process is crucial for life on Earth, as it is the primary source of oxygen and serves as the base of the food chain for many organisms.

What are photosynthetic bacteria (PSB)?

Photosynthetic bacteria are a group of microorganisms capable of photosynthesis, a process where light energy is converted into chemical energy, supporting their growth and reproduction. Unlike plants, these bacteria do not produce oxygen as a byproduct of photosynthesis. They are known for their ability to utilize light under conditions where plants cannot survive, such as in deep water or under soil surfaces, and they play a vital role in recycling nutrients, particularly in aquatic environments. Photosynthetic bacteria can be found in various environments and are used in agriculture to enhance soil fertility and plant health, as they can fix atmospheric nitrogen, decompose organic matter, and suppress soil-borne diseases. This makes them especially valuable to farmers, including those in Australia, for improving crop yield and soil quality.

What are Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus licheniformis?

Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus licheniformis are types of beneficial bacteria commonly found in soil and the gastrointestinal tracts of humans and animals. They are known for their ability to form protective endospores, allowing them to survive in harsh environmental conditions. These bacteria are used in various applications, including agriculture and probiotics, due to their health benefits and ability to promote plant growth.

In agriculture, Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus licheniformis are used to enhance soil health, support plant growth, and protect crops against diseases. They produce enzymes and antibiotics that suppress harmful pathogens, promote nutrient absorption, and improve plant resilience to stress. Their use is particularly valuable to Australian farmers looking to naturally improve crop yields and soil conditions without relying on chemical fertilizers and pesticides.

What are Lactic Acid bacteria and how do they benefit agriculture?

Lactic Acid Bacteria (LAB) are a group of beneficial microorganisms widely recognized for their role in fermenting food products such as yogurt, cheese, and sauerkraut. These bacteria ferment sugars into lactic acid, a process that not only preserves food but also enhances its nutritional value and flavor. In agriculture, LAB play a crucial role in improving soil health, promoting plant growth, and enhancing livestock health.

For plants, LAB can improve soil quality by decomposing organic matter, increasing nutrient availability, and suppressing harmful pathogens. This leads to healthier, more resilient crops and higher yields, which is particularly beneficial for Australian farmers seeking to enhance productivity in an environmentally friendly way.

For livestock, LAB are used as probiotics to maintain healthy gut flora, improve digestion, and boost the immune system, resulting in better overall health and productivity in animals.

The use of LAB in agriculture is a natural and sustainable approach to enhancing productivity while ensuring the health of crops and livestock.

Product introduction and advantages

Why choose BBA's products? What are the advantages of BBA's products?

BBA's products boast several significant advantages that ensure we provide customers with efficient and reliable solutions. Firstly, our products are entirely produced in Australia, using high-quality local materials. This guarantees the purity and effectiveness of our products. Additionally, we leverage Australia's domestic distribution network to deliver products directly to our customers quickly and punctually, eliminating any concerns or needs for stockpiling.

Most importantly, our products undergo rigorous testing by Australia's two most authoritative institutions. This not only accurately identifies the strains of bacteria in our products but also ensures that the quantity of these strains is at an effective level. This dual assurance establishes our product's reputation and reliability in the market, allowing customers to use them with confidence and fully experience the advantages brought by high-quality products made from pure local ingredients.

What's the difference between BBA's liquid reagents and other probiotic dry powder product?

Liquid and dry are two common forms of probiotic formulations, each with its unique benefits and applications. While dry probiotics are favored for their portability and storage convenience, liquid probiotics offer distinct advantages, particularly in terms of effectiveness and ease of use.

Advantages of liquid probiotics

1. Faster bioavailability: liquid probiotics are in an active state, allowing for immediate absorption and utilisation by the body, showcasing benefits quicker.

2. Higher survival rate: In solution, probiotics are in a more natural state, helping maintain viability. Dry processes can deactivate a portion of probiotics, especially under suboptimal storage and transport.

3. Immediate action: liquid probiotics can be directly added to drinking water or applied via spraying, providing an instant supply of probiotics crucial for addressing sudden health issues.

4. Better coverage and distribution: they distribute more evenly, ensuring maximum benefits whether in the digestive system or the environment.

5. Customisation flexibility: easily mixed with other nutrients or health boosters, allowing for tailored formulations to meet specific health needs or goals.

Considerations for dry probiotics

While dry probiotics are convenient for transport and storage, as dormant microbes, they need time to activate and gradually take effect. For example, considering the 6-8 hours food stays in a pig's system, the effectiveness of dry products can be significantly reduced.

In summary, though dry probiotics are popular for their portability, liquid probiotics stand out for maintaining viability, improving bioavailability, and offering quick and effective application. For scenarios requiring immediate results and maximizing probiotic potential, liquid probiotics are the superior choice.

Does BBA produce powdered bacteria products?

Yes, we do. BBA has developed a highly efficient powdered probiotic product. According to our laboratory validations, the concentration of our product can reach 100%, with 1 kilogram of carrier supporting 1 litre of beneficial bacteria. This high concentration ensures that the product becomes highly effective within just 12 to 24 hours of application.

We are also committed to continuous innovation, developing a diverse range of biological solutions tailored to our customers' needs, ensuring we consistently meet the evolving demands of the market.

Agri-aquaculture Application guide

What are the benefits of using BBA's products for growing organic vegetables?

Utilising our products in greenhouse cultivation of organic vegetables offers multiple advantages aimed at enhancing crop growth quality and yield while maintaining and improving soil health. Here are the main benefits of using our products:

1. Improved soil fertility: BBA's products are rich in beneficial microorganisms, such as Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus licheniformis, and lactic acid bacteria. These microbes help decompose organic matter, increasing the nutrient content in the soil, thereby enhancing soil fertility.

2. Enhanced plant disease resistance: beneficial microorganisms can boost plants' resistance to diseases, reducing the need for chemical pesticides. This is particularly important for organic vegetable cultivation, contributing to safer, healthier vegetable production in line with organic farming principles.

3. Promoted plant growth, especially the root system: by improving the soil environment and providing essential nutrients, our products promote the development of plants' root systems, enhancing their ability to absorb water and nutrients, thus supporting healthy plant growth and increased yield.

4. Improved soil structure: the activity of beneficial microorganisms can help improve the physical structure of the soil, increasing its aeration and water retention, providing a better growing environment for plants.

5. Eco-friendly: incorporating our products into organic cultivation reduces reliance on chemical fertilizers and pesticides, lessening the environmental impact and promoting sustainable agriculture.

For best results, it's recommended to apply our products according to the suggested amounts and methods provided in the instructions. Regular monitoring of crop and soil conditions is advised to ensure the healthy growth of crops. Our products are effective against bacterial diseases, helping you successfully grow high-quality organic vegetables in greenhouses, meeting the market's demand for healthy foods.

How can BBA's products help with my lobster's slow growth?

When lobsters grow slowly, our products can aid their growth speed in several ways:

1. Improving water quality: the key to successful aquaculture is maintaining good water quality. BBA products contain beneficial microorganisms, like lactic acid bacteria, that can break down organic matter and reduce harmful substances. These microbes help maintain a healthy aquatic environment by decreasing the concentration of detrimental factors such as ammonia and nitrites, which can negatively affect lobster growth.

2. Boosting immunity: the presence of beneficial microorganisms can strengthen lobsters' immune systems, enhancing their resistance to diseases and thus minimizing growth slowdowns caused by illness.

3. Enhancing digestion and absorption: the microbes in our products can improve the gut health of lobsters, promoting the digestion and absorption of food. This enables lobsters to utilize the nutrients in their feed more effectively, thereby supporting growth.

4. Providing essential nutrients: certain microbes can produce nutrients beneficial for lobster growth, such as vitamins and amino acids, directly supporting their healthy development.

For best results, it is recommended to use our products following the dosage and methods suggested in the product instructions. Regularly monitor water quality parameters and adjust the application frequency and amount as needed. By managing water quality and providing quality feed in combination with our products, you can effectively promote the healthy growth of lobsters and improve issues with slow growth. This approach is also applicable to other areas of aquaculture, such as shrimp and fish farming.

Can BBA's products help reduce pathogens in aquaculture water?

Yes, BBA's products are very effective in reducing pathogens in aquaculture water. They contain a variety of beneficial microorganisms, such as lactic acid bacteria, Bacillus subtilis, and Bacillus licheniformis, which play a crucial role in the aquatic environment:

1. Suppressing harmful microbes: beneficial microorganisms can directly inhibit or limit the growth and reproduction of pathogens by competing for nutrients and producing antimicrobial substances. Lactic acid bacteria, in particular, are known to combat Vibrio bacteria, reducing the need for chemical medications and enhancing product quality.

2. Improving water quality: by breaking down organic waste and degrading toxic substances, beneficial microorganisms improve water quality, lowering concentrations of harmful substances and creating a healthier living environment for aquaculture organisms.

3. Boosting immunity of aquaculture organisms: these microorganisms can also strengthen the immune systems of aquaculture organisms, increasing their resistance to diseases and indirectly reducing problems caused by pathogens.

For best results, it is recommended to regularly add our products to the aquaculture water, following the dosage and application methods specified in the product instructions. Additionally, combining good aquaculture management practices, such as reasonable density control, regular water quality testing, and proper feeding, can further reduce the occurrence of pathogens, ensuring a healthy aquaculture environment and efficient growth of aquaculture organisms.

How to use BBA's products to reduce odor issues in aquaculture?

Odor issues in aquaculture are often caused by deteriorating water quality, incomplete decomposition of organic matter, and the accumulation of harmful gases such as ammonia and hydrogen sulfide. BBA products can effectively reduce odor issues in aquaculture through the following steps:

1. Improve water quality: BBA products contain a variety of beneficial microorganisms, including lactic acid bacteria, Bacillus subtilis, and Bacillus licheniformis, among others. These microorganisms help break down organic matter in the water, reducing sludge accumulation and, consequently, odor production.

2. Reduce harmful gas concentrations: By promoting the effective decomposition of organic matter, our products can reduce the generation of harmful gases like ammonia and hydrogen sulfide, which are major sources of odours in aquaculture.

3. Enhance aquatic life health: The presence of beneficial microorganisms can also boost the immune systems of aquatic life, reducing disease occurrence. Healthier aquatic animals produce less waste, further reducing odor production.

4. Application method: Apply BBA products according to the recommended dosage and method provided in the product manual. Typically, the product can be diluted and evenly sprayed or added directly to the aquaculture water. Regular use can continuously improve water quality and reduce odor issues.

5. Combine with good aquaculture management: In addition to using our products, good aquaculture management practices should also be implemented. This includes controlling stocking density, regularly cleaning sludge, and maintaining proper water flow, to minimize odor issues to the greatest extent.

By following these methods, using our products can not only reduce odor issues during aquaculture but also enhance the overall health and efficiency of aquaculture operations.

How does BBA's product affect water quality parameters, such as pH levels?

BBA introduces beneficial microorganisms into the water, aiming to improve water quality and promote a healthy aquaculture environment. The activity of these microorganisms can positively impact water quality parameters, including Ph levels:

1. pH stability: beneficial microorganisms in our product, such as lactic acid bacteria, can help stabilize the water's pH levels through their metabolic activities. Lactic acid bacteria produce organic acids during fermentation, which can regulate the water's acidity or alkalinity, maintaining it within a range more suitable for aquaculture life.

2. Reduction of harmful substances: by breaking down organic waste in the water and reducing sludge, beneficial microorganisms can decrease the sources of acidic substances, thus preventing a drop in pH levels caused by the decomposition of organic matter.

3. Enhanced buffering capacity: the activity of beneficial microorganisms can also enhance the water's buffering capacity, its ability to resist changes in pH due to external acid or alkaline influences, helping to keep the pH levels stable.

4. Promotion of the nitrogen cycle: specific microorganisms, such as nitrifying bacteria, play a key role in the nitrogen cycle, converting ammonia in the water into nitrates. This process helps maintain the stability of the water's pH levels.

While our product has a positive effect on water quality parameters, proper usage and regular monitoring of these parameters are still crucial. It is recommended to apply the product according to the dosage instructions provided and regularly test the water's pH levels and other key quality parameters to ensure the aquaculture environment is in its optimal state. If there are abnormal fluctuations in the water's pH levels, additional measures may be required for adjustment.

Can BBA's products help with cattle bloat?

Cattle bloat is a common digestive disorder often caused by the excessive gas produced when cattle digest high-fermentable feeds. BBA products, especially those rich in beneficial microorganisms like lactic acid bacteria, can help alleviate the issue of cattle bloat through several mechanisms:

1. Improving gut microbial balance: by increasing the number of beneficial microorganisms in the gut, BBA's products can enhance cattle's digestive health, promoting more efficient food digestion and nutrient absorption, and reducing excessive gas production during fermentation.

2. Facilitating food digestion: Beneficial microorganisms, such as lactic acid bacteria, can break down some of the indigestible components in feed, reducing fermentation in the intestines and, consequently, gas production.

3. Stabilising gut pH Levels: Lactic acid bacteria produce organic acids like lactic acid, helping to maintain an appropriate pH range in the gut, which is beneficial for inhibiting the growth of gas-producing microorganisms.

4. Boosting immunity: beneficial microorganisms can also strengthen the immune system of cattle, enhancing their resistance to diseases, including reducing digestive issues and gas accumulation caused by pathogenic microbes in the gut.

When using our products, it is recommended to follow the dosage and application methods provided in the product manual. Additionally, to effectively prevent and treat cattle bloat, it should be combined with good feeding management practices, such as providing high-quality feed, avoiding sudden changes in feed types, and ensuring adequate water intake, all of which are crucial for maintaining cattle health.

Please note, while our products can serve as a means of prevention and adjunctive treatment for cattle bloat, professional treatment by a veterinarian should be sought immediately if cattle exhibit severe symptoms of bloat.

Can BBA's products boost chicken immunity and improve meat quality?

Yes, BBA's products can enhance the immunity of chickens and also contribute to improving meat quality when added to their feed. This is largely due to the beneficial microorganisms contained in our products, such as lactic acid bacteria, Bacillus subtilis, and Bacillus licheniformis, which have a positive impact on the health and growth of chickens in several ways:

 Boosting Immunity

1. Gut health: beneficial microorganisms help balance the microbial community in the chicken's gut, reducing harmful bacteria and enhancing the intestinal wall's barrier function, thereby boosting immunity.

2. Nutrient absorption: by improving gut health, beneficial microorganisms also increase the absorption rate of nutrients, providing chickens with the energy and nutrition needed to support a properly functioning immune system.

3. Disease prevention: a stronger immune system helps chickens more effectively resist diseases, reducing the incidence of illness and maintaining the overall health of the flock.

Improving meat quality

1. Meat quality enhancement: healthy chickens can more efficiently convert feed nutrients into meat. The presence of beneficial microorganisms, by improving gut health and promoting nutrient absorption, can help enhance the flavor and texture of the meat.

2. Reducing fat accumulation: some studies suggest that beneficial microorganisms can help regulate fat metabolism, reducing unnecessary fat accumulation, thus improving the firmness and texture of the meat.

3. Reducing antibiotic use: enhancing chickens' immunity and reducing disease occurrence can decrease reliance on antibiotics. Long-term use of antibiotics may affect meat quality and consumer health.

This approach is also applicable to the rearing of other poultry, such as ducks, geese, and quails. By adding our products to the feed of these birds, it is possible to promote gut health, improve nutrient absorption efficiency, and strengthen the immune system, thereby comprehensively enhancing the health of the poultry flock and optimizing meat quality. This holistic health management strategy, leveraging the power of beneficial microorganisms, offers an effective way to increase production efficiency and product quality in the poultry industry.

Can livestock and poultry waste, treated with BBA's products, be used as high-quality organic fertilizer?

Yes, animal waste treated with our products can be transformed into high-quality organic fertiliser. Our products contain an abundance of beneficial microorganisms, such as lactic acid bacteria, Bacillus subtilis, and Bacillus licheniformis. These microorganisms act on animal waste through several mechanisms to facilitate its conversion:

1. Accelerated decomposition: Beneficial microorganisms can speed up the decomposition process of organic matter in animal waste, converting it into forms more readily absorbed by plants, enhancing the fertiliser's effectiveness.


2. Odour reduction: By breaking down organic matter in the waste, beneficial microorganisms significantly reduce the production of foul odours, making the treated fertiliser more suitable for agricultural use.


3. Pathogen reduction: The activity of beneficial microorganisms can also help suppress the growth of potential pathogens in the waste, reducing the risk of disease transmission and making the fertiliser safer.


4. Nutrient enrichment: During the decomposition process, beneficial microorganisms can produce secondary metabolites beneficial for plant growth, such as certain vitamins and growth hormones, further enriching the nutritional value of the fertiliser.


Therefore, by treating animal waste with our products, not only can farm waste be effectively managed, but it can also be transformed into an environmentally friendly, nutrient-rich organic fertiliser for crop growth, achieving resource recycling and sustainable development. When using these organic fertilisers, it is recommended to undergo proper composting to ensure the maturity and safety of the fertiliser.

Aquarium Application

With so many probiotic products onthe market, how can I distinguish between good and poor quality?

To determine the quality of probiotic products, the key lies in the concentration and activity of the live bacteria.


Different applications may require specific strains to achieve the best results.

For professionals, a high-powered microscope can be used to observe and count the number of bacteria in the
product. This scientific and precise method is an effective way to assess product quality.

For general consumers, you can make a preliminary judgment by observing the appearance of the product.

High-quality probiotic products often come in semi-transparent packaging. The more turbid the suspension, the lower its light transmission, which usually indicates a higher concentration of active bacteria and more reliable quality.

BBA uses semi-transparent packaging to allow customers to directly see the quality of our product.

Why does my bottle smell when opened?

The odour you notice when opening the AquaCrystal bottle is due to natural by products from the bacteria inside. As bacteria break down organic matter and multiply, they produce gases like hydrogen sulphide, which can create a sulphur-like or "rotten egg" smell. This is completely normal and does not impact product effectiveness.

All our products undergo stringent quality checks to ensure the required concentration and activity levels are met.

Many probiotics have a shelf life of several years, so why does BBA recommend using their liquid probiotic products within one year?

Probiotics are living microorganisms with
their own life cycle, including stages of growth, reproduction, and death. Their lifespan and activity are influenced by factors such as storage conditions (temperature, humidity), oxygen levels, and pH.

Over time, the survival rate of probiotics decreases. Thus, probiotic products typically have a "best before" date. Through testing, we have confirmed that BBA's probiotic products maintain high activity and concentration for up to 12 months under normal storage conditions.


We offer a QR code on the product packaging, which allows users to visit our website and view a video demonstration of the product's performance after 12 months of storage at room temperature.

To preserve the activity of probiotics as much as possible, it is recommended to store them in a dry, cool, and dark place. Refrigerating probiotics is an effective way to extend their shelf life, as such conditions help maintain the optimal physiological state of the bacteria, ensuring they remain effective when used.

What makes BBA's probiotic products unique compared to others on the market?

Customised Strains: We carefully select strains that are adapted to the local ecosystem, specifically optimized for Australian waters.

Highly Concentrated for Optimal Impact: Our probiotics are formulated in an active, high-concentration state, delivering immediate ecological benefits upon use. Even when diluted 20-fold in water, our product maintains a potency that surpasses most other products on the market, ensuring superior effectiveness.

Efficiency: Users can observe noticeable improvements in water quality within 24-48 hours after using our probiotics, with ammonia levels consistently staying below 0.05 mg/L.

Verified Quality: Our products have been validated by the National Metrology Institute, meeting strict performance and safety standards.

Reputation: Since 1996, our products have been a trusted part of the ornamental fish industry in China.

Product Range: Our range covers chlorine removal, liquid and solid bacteria to improve water quality, and food additives to boost the fish immune system.

These features ensure that our probiotic
products stand out in the market, providing reliable and effective water
management solutions.

Do I need to add extra bacteria to a new tank? How does AquaCrystal work?

AquaCrystal mimics natural ecosystems by introducing
beneficial bacteria to speed up the establishment of your tank’s nitrification
process. Adding these bacteria helps jumpstart the nitrogen cycle by converting
toxic ammonia to nitrite and then to nitrate, making the water safer for fish.

By adding AquaCrystal bacteria (following the use of AquaMax water conditioner) to a new tank, you reduce stress on fish and accelerate biofilter establishment, a process
that traditionally takes several weeks.

Is it necessary to add bacteria regularly?

Once your aquarium is fully cycled, additional AquaCrystal bacteria are generally unnecessary. However, you may choose to add more bacteria when introducing new fish, after cleaning filters, or in response to an ammonia or nitrite spike.

If ammonia and nitrite levels remain at or near zero, your tank is stable, and extra bacteria are not required. Routine monitoring and maintenance will keep your biofilter functioning effectively.

How often should I use AquaCrystal bacteria?

After the initial AquaCrystal dosage to establish the biofilter, additional applications are only needed after significant changes, such as adding new fish, using medications, or cleaning or replacing filter media.


These activities may reduce the beneficial bacteria population, so additional
doses help maintain optimal water quality and biofilter efficiency.

When should probiotics be used, and what is the recommended dosage?

Probiotics need to be added regularly to maintain an effective bacterial colony, especially after water changes, filter cleaning, or antibiotic treatments.

 The specific dosage of probiotics used in ornamental fish breeding varies depending on the product and environment. Typically, dosage instructions are provided on the packaging, but here are some general guidelines:

  • Water volume: Dosage is usually calculated based on water volume, e.g., adding a specific amount of probiotics per litre or kilogram of water.
  • Water quality: In cases of poor water quality or after disease treatment, increasing the dosage may help restore water balance.
  • Fish density and health: High-density fish environments may require more probiotics to maintain good water quality. If fish are not in good health, adding more probiotics could
    help boost their immune system.

Regularly test ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels to assess the probiotics' effectiveness and determine if the dosage needs adjustment.

How should I store probiotic products to maintain their effectiveness?

Store probiotics in a dry, cool, and dark environment to maximize their shelf
life. Keep out of reach of children. For example, refrigerating probiotics can extend their effectiveness. Be sure to use the product before the expiration
date for optimal results.

Can probiotics be used in conjunction with other beneficial bacteria?

Yes, combining different strains of probiotics can enhance overall effectiveness. However, caution should be taken when using products from different manufacturers to ensure that they can coexist without inhibiting each other.

Probiotics sometimes exhibit antagonism, where one strain inhibits the growth of another through mechanisms such as antibiotic production, acid creation, or competitive exclusion. At BBA, we carefully manage antagonism when developing and formulating multi-strain probiotics. Our products undergo rigorous testing to ensure all strains coexist effectively, achieving the desired water treatment outcomes.

Can I use medications in my aquarium?

It’s best to avoid medications until your biofilter is fully established. Many treatments, especially those containing copper, formaldehyde, malachite green, or methylene blue, can harm beneficial bacteria essential for detoxifying ammonia.

If fish develop infections from stress-related ammonia spikes, treating them in a separate quarantine tank is preferable. Using medications in your main aquarium could disrupt the biofilter, potentially increasing ammonia levels.

Why is my ammonia level not decreasing with BBA AquaCrystal?

The recommended dosage rate on our AquaCrystal bottle is based on standard aquarium stocking densities for ornamental fish:

  • Small fish:(e.g., guppies, tetras): Follow the guideline of 1 cm of fish per 1 litre of water.
  • Medium fish: (e.g., goldfish): Each fish requires 30 - 40 litres of water.
  • Large or predatory fish: Lower densities are ideal to provide adequate space and maintain water quality.

If your aquarium has a higher stocking density and elevated ammonia levels, consider increasing the dosage of AquaCrystal and boosting filtration. AquaCrystal is a 100% natural product, safe for use at higher doses, with no risk of overdosing.

If ammonia remains high, can I usea chemical ammonia remover?

Yes, chemical ammonia removers are safe to use with AquaCrystal and can provide immediate relief.
These products bind with ammonia, converting it to a less toxic form to protect fish. However, they are a temporary solution.

To achieve stable water quality, it’s essential to address root causes such as overfeeding, insufficient filtration, or overcrowding, while ensuring the biofilter is functioning properly.

Regular water testing, partial water changes, and adding double or triple the normal bacteria dose can also help manage ammonia levels.

What levels of ammonia should I expect to see?

With AquaCrystal, the “new tank syndrome” period is significantly reduced or even eliminated. Based on our tests, properly dosing bacteria helps keep ammonia below 0.05 mg/L as the biofilter matures.

I've noticed that larger packages are more cost-effective; should I buy in bulk?

While larger packages of probiotics may seem more economical, we don’t recommend purchasing large volumes (e.g., 5 or 20 litres). This is similar to why you wouldn't buy a large tub of yogurt – if you can’t use all the probiotics at once, the remaining product may degrade after opening. Airborne bacteria could contaminate the product, compromising the sterile environment probiotics need to survive. Our production facilities are fully sterile to ensure the highest quality.

Unless you can use a large volume in a short time, smaller packages are recommended to maintain freshness and effectiveness, ensuring that the product doesn't lose its potency from extended storage.

When opening an AquaCrystal product bottle, is it normal to see flocculent or membrane-like structures?

When opening a bottle containing probiotics, observing flocculent or membrane-like structures is generally normal. These formations result from the natural growth and metabolic processes of probiotics and are often an indicator of their activity and vitality.

Benefits of Biofilm Formation

  1. Enhanced Stability: Biofilm formation increases the probiotics' ability to establish themselves in aquatic environments by providing a stable and protective environment.
  2. Improved Resilience: It helps the bacteria adapt to changing conditions, such as fluctuations in temperature, pH, or nutrient availability, making them more effective in their intended application.
  3. Sustained Activity: The biofilm ensures a steady release of active probiotics, contributing to a more consistent and long-lasting effect in the water system.

Pond & Natural Pool Application

Does your product have a set dosage rate for allconditions?

Our suggested dosage rate is 10mL for every 1000L of water. However, as every pond is unique, a one-size-fits-all dosage simply isn’t possible due to the variability in factors such as bio load, ecosystem dynamics, filtration, water volume, oxygen levels, pollution levels, algae density, suspended material, and water temperature.

With BBA product’s superior bacterial concentration and activity, we recommend conducting on-site tests to fine-tune the dosage. Professional expertise is crucial in developing a customised maintenance plan for optimal results.

Does your product work for a pond with green (unicellularalgae) water and not just for string algae?

Yes, our product is effective against green water caused by unicellular algae. Algae growth is often fuelled by organic matter and nutrient-rich water, such as residual fish feed. While a certain level of algae is natural and beneficial in a pond ecosystem, overgrowth can lead to oxygen depletion and water quality issues.

Our beneficial bacteria consume the nutrients that algae rely on, reducing organic pollution and curbing algae growth. This creates a healthier, more balanced aquatic environment.

How long does it take to see results for different pond conditions, such as string algae bloom, sludge (cloudy) water, green water, and tannins?

The timeframe depends entirely on the pond’s specific conditions. Based on feedback from our customers:

String algae bloom: Can take 1 week to 1 month, depending on water management practices. Regular maintenance and minimising nutrients are key.

Sludge (cloudy water): Results are typically visible in a few days but may take longer for heavily polluted ponds.

Green water: Improvements can often be observed within 1–3 days with effective dosing.

Tannins: Feedback from our customers indicates noticeable changes in water coloration within 5 days of application. The degradation speed depends on tannin concentration, bacterial dose, and environmental factors.

After I applied your product into the pond, the water looks murky, is it normal?

Cloudy water after adding bacteria to a pond is a common phenomenon and can occur for several reasons related to the ecological balance and bacterial activity.

  1. Initial Bacterial Bloom: when you introduce beneficial bacteria into the pond, they rapidly multiply as they adapt to the environment and begin competing for nutrients. This sudden increase in bacterial numbers, known as a bacterial bloom, can cause the water to appear cloudy.
  2. Organic Matter Breakdown: Beneficial bacteria work by breaking down organic debris, such as fish waste, uneaten food, algae, and decaying plant material. During this process, small particles are released into the water, temporarily increasing turbidity.
  3. Disruption of Microbial Balance: Introducing new bacteria can temporarily disrupt the existing microbial community in the pond. This adjustment period may lead to visible cloudiness as the ecosystem rebalances.
  4. Biofilm Formation: Bacteria often form biofilms on surfaces like rocks, plants, or the pond liner. While this is beneficial long-term, the process can release small particles into the water initially, contributing to cloudiness.
  5. Nutrient Redistribution: Beneficial bacteria consume nutrients like ammonia, nitrites, and organic waste. As they metabolise these substances, they might release by-products into the water, causing temporary cloudiness.

In most cases, the cloudiness resolves within 1 to 7 days as the bacteria establish themselves and the pond ecosystem stabilises.

Does your product have an OD threshold?

Optical density (OD) measures the extent to which a sample absorbs light and is often used as an indicator of material concentration. However, when a sample contains non-dissolved
particulate matter, the OD value may be misleading. This is similar to observing
a glass of water with a small amount of milk; while the water appears cloudy
and opaque, it does not necessarily indicate the presence of bacteria.

Therefore, while OD can be a useful indirect method for monitoring bacterial growth during production by comparing differences in OD values at different time intervals, it is not sufficient to accurately determine bacterial count or activity. Microscopic examination, on
the other hand, provides a more precise and direct observation of bacterial activity and quantity.

For our customers, the most critical factors are the live bacterial count and the activity of the bacteria in the product. To address this, we include a microscopic examination video with each batch, demonstrating the bacterial concentration and activity of the delivered product. This transparent quality assurance process gives users a clear and reliable understanding of our product, ensuring their confidence and satisfaction.

Is it better to apply both liquid and powder products for better results?

Yes, using both liquid and powder products can yield better results, but it’s important to consider the user’s budget. Based on our experience:

  • If the pond has minimal sludge, no odor, and an aeration system:

Our liquid product (aerobic bacteria) is sufficient to maintain clear water. It is highly effective at treating suspended organic matter floating in the water. Shake the product well before use, and ensure UV/ozone systems are turned off during application.

  • If the pond lacks an aeration system:

We recommend using our solid product, which contains anaerobic bacteria designed to efficiently break down sludge at the bottom of the pond. Once applied, the solid product sinks rapidly to the bottom, ensuring the water remains clear and clean.

Do your bacteria stay within the zeolite once in the pond, or do they migrate to other filter media? Does the zeolite need to be replaced regularly?

  • The bacteria are embedded in zeolite and are slowly released into the water over time.
  • There is no need for frequent replacement of the powder bacteria.
  • Once released, the free-floating bacteria may colonise other ceramic or porous filter materials within your pond system.

Is it better to use your bacteria in a trickle-type filter (e.g., Bakki shower), an airtight trickle shower, or in a rolling-type submerged filter?

We recommend applying our powder bacteria product in low-flow or static zones, such as the bottom of a trickle tower or a quiet chamber. This encourages the formation of biofilms and biofloc, which enhances long-term bacterial stability and performance.

We sometimes use hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) to kill string algae. Will it harm your bacteria as well?

Yes. Similar to UV sterilisation, hydrogen peroxide is a non-selective oxidiser - it will kill all microbes, including beneficial bacteria. We recommend avoiding H₂O₂ dosing immediately before or after applying probiotics.

At what cold temperatures do the bacteria stop working or become inactive?

Most beneficial bacteria become dormant below 10°C. Their metabolic activity slows dramatically, and they enter a resting state, meaning they are no longer effective at nutrient conversion or waste breakdown. Maintaining temperatures within 20–35°C is ideal for optimal bacterial activity.