A total noob attempting fishless cycling. I've had water in this tank for over two weeks. Used a whole bottle of API quick start and not much seemed to happen. So I bought pure ammonia and dosed up to 4ppm a week ago, and started using Nite-Out II from Maidenhead Aquatics.
Filter on, heater on max (around 23°C).
Plants are loving it and I'm starting to see algae growth but today's test suggests I'm nowhere near ready for any livestock. Correct?
I'd love to get some snails and shrimp in this weekend.
Posted by bugblatter_
2 Comments
Are you seeing any nitrites or nitrates yet?
But yes, the ammonia is too high currently for fish.
The fact that things are growing is a good sign that you’re on your way. Can take 6 weeks for a tank to be cycling properly.
In short, correct.
The goal is for ammonia to be converted into nitrites, which will then start accumulating. After that, the nitrites should be converted into nitrates. Your tank is ready when you can add a small dose of ammonia, and it quickly gets processed without leaving ammonia or nitrites behind, only nitrates should continue to rise. As long as you measure any ammonia or nitries, it’s NO time for snails, fish or shrimp yet. Patience.
PS. The fact that plants and especially algae are growing well is probably due to the ammonia levels, they love that stuff.