API Stress Coat

• Removes chlorine, chloramine and heavy metals from tap water in a single dose, making it safe for fish.
• Aloe vera slime-coat formula supports the fish's natural mucous layer, which comes under strain during netting, transport and water changes.
• Dosed at 5 mL per 38 L (10 US gallons) of aquarium water, doubled when extra slime-coat support is needed.
• Safe for freshwater fish, invertebrates and live plants, and does not disrupt biological filtration or pH, per the manufacturer.
• Active ingredient: aloe vera leaf (0.05 g per 100 mL), with sodium thiosulfate as the dechlorinator and edetic acid (EDTA) to bind metals.
• Cost per litre of treated water scales with pack size, from around 6c per litre in the 30 mL bottle down to under 1c per litre in the 946 mL and 18.9 L sizes.

Water-treated figures are calculated from the label dose of 5 mL per 38 L, rounded to the nearest litre; cost per litre is calculated live from current price.

Standard dose: add 5 mL per 38 L (10 US gallons) of aquarium water at tank set-up, at every water change, and when adding new fish. Double the dose (10 mL per 38 L) when the label calls for extra slime-coat support, such as after netting or transport. Dose to the full volume of water being added or changed, not just the top-up amount.

Suitable for freshwater aquariums; the manufacturer states it is safe for all fish, invertebrates such as shrimp and snails, and live plants, without affecting biological filtration or pH. This is the freshwater aquarium formula – API also sells separate Marine Stress Coat and Pond Stress Coat products for saltwater systems and outdoor ponds. The label states: "For ornamental fish use only; not to be used on fish intended for human consumption."

Keep out of reach of children, as directed on the label. Shelf life and storage conditions are not published in the manufacturer information sourced for this listing – check the use-by date printed on your bottle.

Often paired with a bacterial starter for new-tank cycling, a water test kit to confirm chlorine, chloramine and ammonia readings after dosing, and a fish net for the netting and transport moments the aloe vera formula is designed to buffer.

All API Stress Coat purchases are covered by the consumer guarantees in the Australian Consumer Law, including the right to a repair, replacement or refund if a bottle is faulty, not fit for purpose, or doesn't match its description. If your order arrives damaged or faulty, contact Nick's Aquarium Oceanarium Terrarium with your order details so it can be resolved under these guarantees.

How much API Stress Coat do I add per water change?

The standard dose is 5 mL per 38 L (10 US gallons) of aquarium water, added at set-up, at every water change, and whenever new fish go in. Double the dose when extra slime-coat support is needed, such as after netting or transport.

Does it remove chloramine, not just chlorine?

Yes. The label lists chlorine, chloramine and heavy metals as neutralised in a single dose, which is relevant on Brisbane and North Lakes town water supplies that use chloramine for disinfection.

Is API Stress Coat safe for shrimp, snails and live plants?

The manufacturer states it is safe for all fish, invertebrates and aquarium plants, and that it does not affect biological filtration or pH.

Which size should I buy?

Compare the water treated and cost per litre in the specifications table above. The 30 mL bottle costs the most per litre at around 6c, while the 946 mL and 18.9 L sizes work out to under 1c per litre. Choose a size that covers your next few water changes without a large amount left sitting in the cupboard.

Can I use this in a pond?

This listing is API's aquarium Stress Coat formula. Mars Fishcare also sells a dedicated Pond Stress Coat for larger outdoor volumes, so check you have the pond-specific product if that's what you need.

What is the active ingredient?

Aloe vera leaf (0.05 g per 100 mL) is the active ingredient, alongside sodium thiosulfate as the dechlorinator and edetic acid (EDTA) to bind heavy metals.