API Stress Coat (16 oz)
The dechlorinator that also heals: removes chlorine and neutralises chloramine while adding an aloe-vera slime coat that reduces stress and helps torn fins recover. Not an ammonia detoxifier.
- +Removes chlorine, neutralises chloramine and binds heavy metals, working the moment it is added
- +Adds an aloe-vera slime coat that eases stress and helps damaged fins and wounds heal
- +Long-trusted budget staple — one of the most-reviewed conditioners in the hobby
- +Shrimp safe and plant safe at label dose, and does not affect pH
- −No ammonia binding — it will not detox an ammonia or nitrite spike
- −Less concentrated than Prime — 5 mL treats 10 gallons, so a bottle runs out fast
This is API Stress Coat, a dechlorinator that also adds an aloe-vera slime coat. It removes chlorine, neutralises chloramine and binds heavy metals instantly, while the aloe eases stress and helps torn fins and wounds recover. It is not an ammonia detoxifier.
- Routine water changes plus stress reduction
- Tanks with fish recovering from handling, transport or minor fin damage
- Beginners who want a trusted, widely stocked conditioner
- Ammonia emergencies, since it does not bind ammonia
- Keepers who want the lowest cost per gallon, where Safe or API Tap win
- Anyone who dislikes a slime-coat additive
We separate what the maker claims from what independent sources confirm, what owners report, and where we are drawing an inference. We do not bench-test products.
- Removes chlorine and chloramine, binds heavy metals, works instantly
- Adds an aloe-vera slime coat that eases stress
- 5 mL per 10 gallons; shrimp and plant safe; no pH impact
- It does not detoxify ammonia
- Less concentrated than Prime, so a bottle runs out faster
- One of the most-reviewed conditioners in the hobby
- The dechlorinator-plus-slime-coat pick: handy after handling or transport, though the aloe additive is a preference and it will not detox ammonia
Inexpensive but less concentrated at 5 mL per 10 gallons, so a bottle runs out faster than Prime. Useful to keep on hand for new arrivals and minor fin damage.
- Assuming it detoxifies ammonia, which it does not
- Running out faster due to lower concentration
- Relying on the slime coat as a treatment for illness, which it is not
We do not lab-test the chemistry; we relay the manufacturer's stated figures. We give gear and method guidance only, not livestock or disease advice; route fish-health questions to a veterinarian or an established authority. For a serious ammonia emergency or a sick tank, consult a veterinarian or an established authority alongside conditioning the water.
The maker states the aloe-vera slime coat eases stress and supports recovery of torn fins and wounds. For active disease, consult a vet or an established authority rather than relying on a conditioner.
No. It handles chlorine, chloramine and metals. For ammonia detox use Prime, Safe or Fritz Complete.
5 mL per 10 gallons, dosed to the new water on a change.