API
API Stress Coat Aquarium Water Conditioner Review
Reviewed by Mark Reynolds · Published
Discover how API Stress Coat ensures a safe environment for your fish while promoting healing and reducing stress. Read our detailed review now!

The verdict
API Stress Coat is an essential product for maintaining fish health and safety.
Why we recommend it
Contains one (1) API STRESS COAT Aquarium Water Conditioner 16-Ounce Bottle
Makes tap water safe and protects fish with dual-action formula
Removes chemicals from tap water that are harmful to fish
Replaces fish’s protective coat damaged by handling or fish fighting with healing power of Aloe Vera extract
Use when adding or changing water, when adding new fish and when fish are sick or injured
Instructions: Add 5 ml. for each 10 gallons of aquarium water. Double the dose to replace slime coat and to repair damag
Pros
- Effectively neutralizes harmful chemicals in tap water
- Promotes healing with aloe vera extract
- Easy dosing instructions
- Affordable and high value for maintenance
- Highly rated by thousands of customers
Cons
- Only designed for freshwater fish
- May not be suitable for all fish species
Gallery
Full review
Overview
The API Stress Coat Aquarium Water Conditioner is a must-have for any aquarium enthusiast looking to provide their fish with the safest and healthiest environment possible. This product, presented in a 16-ounce bottle, has earned its place as a bestseller in the Fish & Aquatic Pets category on Amazon, boasting an impressive rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from over 38,000 reviews. With its dual-action formula, it effectively neutralizes harmful chemicals in tap water while promoting the healing of fish tissue, making it an essential addition to any fishkeeper's toolkit.
Key Features
One of the standout features of the API Stress Coat is its ability to make tap water safe for freshwater fish almost instantly. Tap water often contains chlorine, chloramines, and ammonia, all of which can cause severe stress and health issues for fish. API Stress Coat works effectively to remove these harmful chemicals, ensuring that your aquatic pets are safe from gill and tissue damage.
Additionally, this conditioner is enriched with aloe vera, known for its healing properties. The aloe vera extract not only helps to replace the protective slime coat that may be damaged during handling or fish fighting, but it also accelerates the healing of torn fins and skin wounds. This unique feature sets API Stress Coat apart from other water conditioners on the market.
Using the product is straightforward. The instructions recommend adding 5 ml for every 10 gallons of aquarium water, which can be doubled when treating fish that are sick or have damaged skin and fins. This ease of use has garnered positive feedback from customers who appreciate the clear dosing instructions.
Who Is It For
API Stress Coat is perfect for both novice and experienced fishkeepers. Whether you’re setting up your first aquarium or managing a large community tank, this water conditioner is designed to meet your needs. It's especially beneficial for those who frequently change their tank water, add new fish, or are dealing with sick or stressed fish. The affordability of the product, coupled with its effectiveness, makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking to maintain a healthy aquarium environment.
Final Verdict
In conclusion, the API Stress Coat Aquarium Water Conditioner is a reliable and effective solution for anyone who wants to keep their fish healthy and thriving. With its dual-action formula that removes harmful chemicals and promotes healing, this product is a valuable investment for fish enthusiasts.
The overwhelmingly positive customer sentiment highlights the product's effectiveness in maintaining proper water conditions and promoting fish health. Many users have reported significant improvements in their fish's well-being, with no deaths attributed to the use of tap water treated with this conditioner. Overall, API Stress Coat stands as a testament to API's commitment to quality and the well-being of aquatic life.
Specifications
| Brand Name | API |
|---|---|
| Unit Count | 16 Ounce |
| Manufacturer | Mars Fishcare |
| UPC | 317163050859 |
| Global Trade Identification Number | 00317163050859 |
| Item Type Name | Aquarium Water Conditioner |
| Model Number | 85C |
| Manufacturer Part Number | 85C |
| Best Sellers Rank | #873 in Pet Supplies (See Top 100 in Pet Supplies)#3 in Aquarium Water Treatments |
| ASIN | B000255MZG |
| Customer Reviews | 4.8 4.8 out of 5 stars (38,569) 4.8 out of 5 stars |
| Liquid Volume | 0.48 liters |
| Item Weight | 6.4 ounces |
| Item Form | Liquid |
| Pet Type | Fish |
| Target Species | Fish |
| Allergen Information | Apple Free |
| Product Dimensions | 5 x 1 x 5 inches; 6.4 ounces |
| Item model number | 85C |
| Department | Unisex-Adult |
| Date First Available | June 15, 2004 |
What buyers say
4.8 · 5 reviews“I add API Stress Coat to all new water before it goes into my aquarium.I also add a enough hot water to make it the same temperature as the aquarium.Add an extra dose when add fish.Add an extra dose whenever fish appear ill or stressed.It truly is an first-resort, miracle medicine for fish.THE FOLLOWING REVIEWS ARE FOR ALL OF MY AQUATIC PURCHASES.I always read two dozen or more User Reviews for any product I buy.Amazon is honest and prints both the good and the bad reviews.I bought the following products from Amazon:>*****> Hagen Marina Ecoscaper Hydrocotyle Silk Plant.I am really pleased with this plant.And the fish like it too . . . no rough edges.It is just as pictured and looks so realistic.>*****> Hagen Exo Terra Water PLANT, Duckweed.It looks and floats just like real duckweed !I showed it to the aquatics people at Petco and they were impressed.>*****> Hydor Theo Submersible Aquarium HEATER 25W UL.Very small and easy to adjust; plus it can be placed completely underwaterin any position: vertical, horizontal, or on an angle.>*****> Hagen Elite Underwater Mini FILTER for up to 3 gallon tank.>*****> Hagen Elite Mini Internal FOAM 5 PACK replacement sponges.This is an excellent filter for my 5 gallon tank.It is well-made and powerful and could filter a 10 gallon tank.To reduce the water current to make it easy on my fish, I TOOK THE ADVICE FROM A USER REVIEWand bought a 5-pack of replacement sponge filters and used one sponge to completely cover the outflow valve.I also put a wee bit of the foam filter in the Venturi diffuser aerator.I set the aerator to low, which still provides ample aeration.I set the green filter power dial on the side of the filter to low to be just enough to create a good supply of aerating bubbles.I operated the aquarium for over a month without fish so that the water would be biologically perfect for them.Petco checks water samples for free.That little $9 dollar bio filter is just a wonder and so easy to maintain.Unplug the filter and remove it from the aquarium, then syphon off some aquarium water ( never use tap water) and squeeze the foam sponge in clean aquarium waterthree times or more until the final wash water is almost clear, then replace the sponge in the filter.I now have 5 Von Rio "Flame" Tetras doing very well in their new home.They do best when in a group of 5 or more, and in a low light environment, so I must have low-light live plants.I have a well-planted 5 gallon corner-type aquarium with a lid just for these 5 beautiful and hardy little orange fish.To provide shelter, there are lots of live Java ferns and wisteria plants at each end, plus the hydrocotyle silk plant to hide the filter and heater, and the plastic floatingduckweed to provide shelter from above.I purchased the silk hydrocotyle and plastic duckweed, because these live plants would perish in low light.Fish, like all living creatures, need shelter from real or perceived threats.Stress is the cause of most of life's mental and physical illnesses.For many years, I have purchased almost every type of product from Amazon and never had a problem.Products are as advertised, or better, and Super Saver Shipping is fast and dependable.I recommended all of the above products to my friends.I tell everyone to save money and buy through Amazon ( including the aquatics people at Petco ).//”
“Having a home aquarium can be a tricky endeavor, especially when it comes to maintaining a healthy environment for your fish. This product has been a game changer for me.Firstly, the 16-ounce size is very economical. It lasts quite a while even with regular use, which is great for someone who doesn’t want to constantly repurchase supplies. The application process is straightforward and easy – just follow the instructions on the bottle.The most impressive part is its effectiveness. Since using this conditioner, I’ve noticed that my fish are visibly healthier and more active. Their colors are more vibrant, and they seem less stressed, especially after water changes or when introducing new fish to the tank. The product claims to reduce fish stress by 40% and it really seems to live up to that promise.Another major benefit is how it treats tap water. The conditioner neutralizes chlorine, chloramines, and heavy metals present in tap water, making it safer for the aquarium. This is crucial for the wellbeing of the fish and helps maintain a balanced ecosystem in the tank.Overall, I highly recommend the API STRESS COAT Aquarium Water Conditioner to any aquarium enthusiast. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced fishkeeper, this product is a must-have in your aquarium care toolkit. It’s a small investment for the huge benefit it brings to the health and happiness of your aquatic pets.”
“For use in aquariums and plant water to remove chlorine and chloramine and it does a wonderful job!”
“I depend on the API Stress Coat to keep my fish healthy and happy! It is convenient to use and lasts a long time. It does a great job at helping keep nitrates low, keeps water clear and is safe and effective to use.”
“It looks to work well. I see some bubbles in the water surface after using this product, but it may not be a real issue.”
Frequently asked questions
Is API Stress Coat safe for all fish species?+
API Stress Coat is designed primarily for freshwater fish. It's important to check if your specific species requires special care.
How often should I use API Stress Coat?+
It is recommended to use API Stress Coat whenever you change water, add new fish, or if your fish are sick or stressed.
Can I overdose API Stress Coat?+
While it's difficult to overdose, it's best to follow the dosage instructions provided to ensure the safety and health of your fish.
Does this product treat saltwater tanks as well?+
API Stress Coat is primarily formulated for freshwater aquariums; for saltwater tanks, consider products specifically designed for that environment.
What should I do if my fish show signs of stress?+
If your fish exhibit signs of stress, such as erratic swimming or hiding, you should test your water conditions and consider using API Stress Coat to help alleviate their stress.
About the reviewer
Mark Reynolds
Pet Care Editor
Mark is a lifelong pet owner who reviews pet products for safety, durability and real-world use.
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