cycling

[sir_dudeguy]

when cycling, how high should the amonia and nitrites go? Is there a point to where they are too high? If so, do you just do a water change?
thanks

oh also, is it ok to have hermit crabs in there during cycle? just to clean up?

 

[LittlePuff]

Not sure about the levels.
Why do you have inverts when the tank isn't cycled?

Kim

 

[Scuba Oz]

I would not let the amonia get past .5- 1 on the test. When it is getting that high do a water change. Trites wont get too high anyways before turning to trates. Just keep the ammonia in check and you will be okay.

Good Luck and

TO REEF CENTRAL

 

[Ibrakeforreefs]

You generally try to KEEP ALL LIVESTOCK out of the tank until it is cycled.

What are your parameter?

Or are you just wondering?

 

[MiddletonMark]

IMO, there's no reason not to start a regular water change practice once the cycle starts. You're not going to slow it down, just perhaps keep more life on the rocks.

I generally like to keep any `spikes' as minimal as possible - would change water once the levels start to rise.

 

[sir_dudeguy]

ok thanks. And just to clarify, no i dont have inverts in yet, i was just wondering becuase i was told to start the cycle put food in there and just let it sit, and the cycle would start. I have no liverock in there, just lace rock. The tank still looks nice w/nothing but rock in there, so i just wanted to know if i could have somethin to clean the food off the sand to keep it lookin normal, thats all.
thanks