EZ4U SLUDGE REMOVER TABLETS contain a select blend of active hydrolytic enzymes and eight specially selected strains of naturally occurring, environmentally friendly living beneficial bacteria that break down and control sludge, making aquatic turtle habitat maintenance much easier.  The bacteria are facultative anaerobic Bacillus heterotrophs that are 100% nontoxic, non-pathogenic, and feed on decomposing organic matter (sludge).  They work in both the presence and absence of oxygen, their main requirement being the presence of organic carbon as found in sludge.  Also, the EZ4U sludge remover enzymes and bacteria biologically control scum and cloudy water caused by excess food in the water. 

In aquariums sludge is a combination of fish waste, as well as the waste from other aquatic animals, including decaying plants, and uneaten food.  Sludge consists of proteins, fats, starches and cellulose that cannot be utilized by nitrifying bacteria.  Sludge causes poor water conditions, clogged filters, reduced oxygen, unsightly tanks and unwanted odors.  The older the aquarium, the more waste will be present that needs to be controlled.  Regular use of EZ4U SLUDGE REMOVER TABLETS will remove the natural sludge that accumulates in aquariums, greatly improving water quality and helping to prevent odors. 

Also, EZ4U SLUDGE REMOVER TABLETS are non-corrosive and effective in water filters by eliminating organic debris accumulation in biological, mechanical, sand, or gravel filters that may clog the filter media to produce toxic anaerobic conditions.  The Tablets decrease filter blockages, and increase filter efficiency and outflow. 

DIRECTIONS FOR USE:      
Easy to use: Add one tablet per 10 gallons (37.8L) or less of water every 30 days. For aquatic habitats with heavy waste build-up, use one tablet per 10 gallons or less once a week for at least the first month, and add subsequent doses once per month . Fastest results are in aerated water.  Effective temperature range is 55-110 degrees fahrenheit (=12.7-43.3 degrees centigrade).  Optimum temperature range is 75-90 degrees fahrenheit (23.9-32.2 degrees centigrade).  Double recommended dosage if water temperature is less than 68 degrees fahrenheit (20 degrees centigrade).  A dissolved oxygen (DO) concentration of at least 2.0 ppm (mgL) is recommended, which will be accomplished with even minimal water movement.  Double recommended dosage for use in saline waters (salinity greater than 8 parts per thousand). 

Over time, aquariums may have a heavy accumulation of sludge and poor water quality, which can result in acidic pH (acidity/alkalinity) and the build up of toxic nitrogen compounds (ammonia, nitrites, nitrates) which need to be eliminated.   For best results when first using EZ4U SLUDGE REMOVER TABLETS in previously established aquariums, vacuum substrate to remove excess debris. 

When making a partial or complete water change using tap water, the water should be treated before being added to the aquarium by adding the tablets in Kordon EZ4U INSTANT WATER CONDITIONER.  Or, prior to adding EZ4U SLUDGE REMOVER TABLETS, a more extensive treatment of the water can be done by using Kordon's Amquel®+ and NovAqua®+.  Both AmQuel+ and NovAqua+ remove the toxic chlorine and chloramines in the tap water that would be harmful to the beneficial bacteria in EZ4U SLUDGE REMOVER TABLETS.  In addition, the Amquel+ will detoxify all of the excess nitrogen compounds in the tap water  The NovAqua+ will add useful water conditioning and further remove the toxic heavy metals that come from the tap water which also can be harmful to the beneficial bacteria in EZ4U SLUDGE REMOVER TABLETS. 

[Note:  EZ4U SLUDGE REMOVER TABLETS are not an algaecide and do not kill algae or other plant life.]

INGREDIENTS
Dried enzyme byproducts of specialized cultured strains of bacteria that biodegrade organic sludge at an accelerated rate.  Eight species of living dormant Bacillus bacteria species, totaling 2-3 million individuals in each tablet, comprising Protein Digesting Bacteria, Starch Digesting Bacteria, Fat Digesting Bacteria, and Cellulose Digesting Bacteria.  The bacteria are technically classified as facultative aerobic and anaerobic heterotrophs that are nontoxic and non-pathogenic.  They work in both the presence and absence of oxygen.  The acidity/alkalinity of the ingredients and product are pH neutral (7.0). 

The bacteria in EZ4U SLUDGE TABS FOR TURTLES are professional aquaculture products recognized by the U.S. EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) as not requiring EPA registration and are listed as such in the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA).  These bacteria pose no health hazards to humans, fishes and other aquatic animals, reptiles, pets, plants, waterfowl, or any other type of wildlife. 

PRECAUTIONS
The use of antibiotics, or chemotherapeutic agents that kill bacteria, are inhibitory and may be lethal to the bacteria in EZ4U SLUDGE REMOVER TABLETS.  This includes copper which should be kept at a total concentration in the water of less than 0.05 ppm (= 0.05 mgL).

STORAGE
For longest effectiveness, store product in a cool dry place.   Short-term freezing has no detrimental effects on this product.  EZ4U SLUDGE REMOVER TABLETS are stable and have a long shelf life.