The waste produced by the fish breakdown to produce ammonia and when the ammonia levels reach a high level of concentration within the system, bacteria or (Nitrosomonas) begin to colonize within the system. As these bacteria begin to build the ammonia is then converted to nitrite. In a pendulum style motion the nitrite level begin to gradually increase and the ammonia levels begin to decrease. Nitrite concentrations similar to ammonia are still harmful to fish and await one more process before plants are able to receive nutrients effectively from the fish waste. When the nitrite levels reach a certain concentration depending on the size and capacity of the system, another bacteria or (Nitrobacteria) begin to colonize within the system converting the nitrites to nitrates which are less harmful to fish and finalize the process for usable nitrogen then ready to be used as plant food. While the microbiology surrounding aquaponics is complex the equipment necessary to create the nitrogen process are very straightforward.