How does AmGuard compare to Seachem Prime?

Prime is a water conditioner that removes chlorine and chloramine and also detoxifies ammonia. AmGuard is a dedicated ammonia detoxifier with longer-lasting action (up to 72 hours) and no dechlorination properties. They can be used together.

Can I use AmGuard during tank cycling?

Yes. AmGuard converts ammonia to a non-toxic form that the biofilter can still consume, so it does not stall the cycling process.

Is AmGuard safe for reef tanks and invertebrates?

Yes, at the recommended dose it is safe for reef aquariums and invertebrates.

How long does one dose last?

One dose remains active for up to 72 hours, twice as long as many competing products.

The 500 mL bottle treats up to about 13,200 gallons total at the standard dose, making it suitable for multi-tank systems and breeders. Smaller sizes are available for nano and mid-size tanks.

Where is the Seachem AmGuard 500 mL / 17 fl. oz. cheapest?

At PADI-Dja, for $7.20, 64% under what the other stores charge, as of our latest check.

What do buyers say about the Seachem AmGuard 500 mL / 17 fl. oz.?

Rated 5 out of 5 from 1 ratings.

Where can I buy the Seachem AmGuard 500 mL / 17 fl. oz.?

11 stores we checked sell it, including Walmart, Squeaky's Aquatics, PADI-Dja, Care-A-Lot Pet Supply, Fish Tanks Direct.

Seachem AmGuard 500 mL / 17 fl. oz.

Best price now

$7.20at PADI-DjaChecked 1 h ago

64% under what the other stores charge

Compared across 12 stores. Prices are checked against each store and labelled with when.

Visit PADI-Dja

What reviewers say

Reviewers praise AmGuard for its rapid ammonia detoxification and long-lasting effect. Many find it essential during tank cycling and emergencies. Some criticize the difficulty of measuring small doses and occasional water clouding.

What people mention

EffectivenessPraisedUsers report ammonia levels drop within minutes of dosing.
DurationPraisedThe 72-hour activity is longer than many competing products.
DosingMixedSome find the dose easy to measure, while others struggle with small volumes for nano tanks.
Water clarityMixedA few users notice temporary cloudiness after dosing, but most do not.
SafetyPraisedReef and invertebrate keepers report no harm at recommended doses.

About the Seachem AmGuard 500 mL / 17 fl. oz.

Seachem AmGuard is a liquid ammonia detoxifier for freshwater and saltwater aquariums. One dose neutralizes free ammonia (NH3) and ammonium (NH4+) within minutes and stays active for up to 72 hours.

It converts ammonia to a non-toxic form that the biofilter can still consume. It can be used during tank cycling, after a fish-in emergency, or as a precaution before water changes. It does not alter pH and is reef and invertebrate safe at the recommended dose. It does not dechlorinate water.

The standard dose is 1 mL per 40 L (about 10.5 US gallons), and one dose neutralizes up to 1 ppm of free ammonia. For ammonia spikes, use up to 2x the standard dose (max 2 mL per 40 L). Dose directly into the tank or sump where flow is good, and re-dose every 48 to 72 hours until a free-ammonia test stays at zero.

Type

Liquid ammonia detoxifier

Size

500 mL / 16.9 fl. oz.

Treats up to

About 13,200 gallons total at the standard dose

Water type

Freshwater and saltwater

Affects pH

Reef safe

Yes, at recommended dose

Standard dose