Do I have to add Ammonia?Updated a month ago

Yes, you have to add ammonia if you are using an inert substrate or have no other natural source of ammonia. Ammonia can also come from livestock or decaying fish food. A couple of pinches of fish food a few times a week can provide ammonia for bacteria cycling.

Most aquasoils release some ammonia, which is sufficient for the bacteria to propagate. Aquasoil and soil base substrates contribute trace elements and organic carbon, all of which are necessary in sustaining microbial populations. Tanks with aquasoil/soils kickstart their microbial communities faster than aquariums using sterile/inert substrates only.

The microbial impact of using aquasoils in aquariums is a topic that does not get enough attention.