Seachem Prime is the most widely used water conditioner in the freshwater aquarium hobby — and for good reason. It immediately and permanently removes chlorine and chloramine from tap water, then goes further by detoxifying ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate for 48 hours while the biological filter processes them. It also eliminates heavy metals at typical tap water concentrations and supports the natural slime coat without artificial additives. 5x more concentrated than most competing products.
Prime is non-acidic and will not affect pH. It is safe for all freshwater fish, shrimp, snails, and plants at the recommended dose. For shrimp tanks specifically, Prime is important both for routine water changes and in ammonia or nitrite emergencies during the cycling phase. A single bottle of Prime can treat a very large volume of water, making it highly economical for regular use. The slight sulfur odor is normal and harmless.
Product Details
Best For
All freshwater aquariums — use at setup, every water change, and any time tap water is added
Safe For
Freshwater shrimp, snails, bettas, nano fish, and invertebrates when prepared as directed
Prep
Add to new water before introducing to tank, or dose directly into aquarium based on full tank volume
Why It Works
Product Highlights
01
Removes Chlorine & Chloramine
Immediately and permanently neutralizes chlorine and chloramine — both of which are lethal to beneficial bacteria and harmful to fish and shrimp at any concentration.
02
Detoxifies Ammonia & Nitrite for 48 Hours
Converts ammonia into a safe, non-toxic form that the biofilter can still process. Critical during cycling and emergency ammonia spikes in established tanks.
03
5x Concentrated — Economical
One 250 mL bottle treats up to 2,500 gallons of water at standard dose. Highly cost-effective for regular water changes across multiple tanks.
How to Use
How to Use
Standard dose: 1 capful (5 mL) per 50 US gallons (200 L) of new water. For smaller volumes, each cap thread is approximately 1 mL — use 2 drops per gallon for very small tanks or nano setups. Best results when added to new water before introducing it to the tank.
If dosing directly into the aquarium (rather than the new water), base the dose on the full aquarium volume. For emergency ammonia or nitrite situations, up to 5x the normal dose can be safely used. If water temperature is above 86°F and chlorine/ammonia levels are low, use a half dose.
Quick Reference
Read full instructions before use
Start with the minimum recommended amount
Monitor livestock for 24 hours after introduction
Contact us if you have questions before use
Pairs Well With
Complete Your Setup
Pair equipment with the supplies needed to finish the setup.
Yes, if your water source contains chlorine or chloramine. Municipal tap water almost universally contains one or both. Prime immediately neutralizes them, making tap water safe for fish, shrimp, and beneficial bacteria on contact.
What is the correct dose?+
1 capful (5 mL) per 50 US gallons (200 L) of new water. For nano tanks, use 2 drops per gallon. Each cap thread on the bottle is approximately 1 mL for smaller measurements.
Can I use Prime during tank cycling?+
Yes — Prime is widely used during the cycling phase to detoxify ammonia and nitrite without stalling the cycle. It makes the ammonia temporarily non-toxic to fish while still allowing beneficial bacteria to process it.
What is the free shipping threshold?+
Free shipping on plants and dry goods at $75+.
Can I use Prime in a shrimp tank?+
Yes — Prime is safe for shrimp at the recommended dose. It is widely used in Neocaridina and Caridina shrimp tanks as the standard water conditioner for all water changes.
What is the sulfur smell? Is it safe?+
The slight sulfur odor is normal and is a characteristic of Prime's active ingredient. It is completely harmless to fish, shrimp, and plants and dissipates quickly after dosing.
How is it shipped?+
Packed securely and shipped Monday through Thursday via standard ground shipping. Plants and dry goods ship free at $75+. Transit times vary by location.
Can I order this with livestock?+
Yes. Dry goods can ship together with livestock orders.
Why Order From Razz Aquatics
Packed With Care. Every Order.
Every product we stock is chosen and tested for aquarium use. We run over 100 dedicated aquariums on-site — we use these products ourselves. Family-owned, packed in-house, and backed without fine print.