I need cycling advice.

foreveringlass · #1 02-05-2010, 10:32 PM

I am new to this addiction, and need some help. Everywhere I have read says when cycling a new tank it takes up to 6 weeks. While waiting, test and watch for ammonia and Nitrite levels rise and fall, then watch for the nitrates to do the same. I started doing this and today, discovered my levels are back down to 0ppm on the ammonia and nitrite and my nitrates are dropping and below 5ppm now.
When is it safe to add fish? It seems way too early and the last thing I want to do is rush it!

Chase31 · #2 02-05-2010, 10:34 PM

in my freshwater it cycled in a week but im no expert and im jumping on to see what people have to say.

cuz · #3 02-05-2010, 10:45 PM

how long have you been "cycling" and are you using any live rock or just base rock?

foreveringlass · #4 02-05-2010, 10:47 PM

I've only been cycling for 2 weeks and I am using live rock.

foreveringlass · #5 02-05-2010, 10:52 PM

I also have live sand.

naesco · #6 02-06-2010, 12:24 AM

You will get an ammonia cycle and it will be measurable.
You will than get a nitrite cycle and it will be measurable.
Wait two weeks after you get a zero reading on nitrites and than add one fish at a time one month apart.
Resist the urge to add more and too often because that is what leads to problems.