Is my cycle normal?

[hoboapocalypse]

Hello! I started a new cycle last Saturday using Carib-Sea live sand and dry rock. I placed 3 pieces of frozen shrimp for the ammonia. I did a water test last night with an API test kit and found 0 Ammonia, 5ppm Nitrite, and 40ppm Nitrate. Are my tests accurate? Seems a bit too quick to be getting those numbers this early from what I have been reading. Thanks for any help!

PJ

 

[Fade2White12]

It is a bit quick, especially with no additional bacteria dosing. I'd be reluctant to declare your cycle almost over. Just continue to monitor your levels closely and check back over the next few days/weeks.

 

[gaz81]

first thing i would say is get another test kit,api is rubbish. iv'e only recently setup myself and was using the api test kit and readings where well off. take some water down to your lfs to get tested and pick up a good test kit whilst your there. with your water parameters being normal at this stage i'm probably not the best person to tell you at my level of experience

 

[Aurori]

I just started a tank and the numbers acting in a similar way, i just set it up for a week and a half now. You are right to question results like this, i had api test kit and returned it since a friend lent me theirs and turned out that the kit i had was off. If you don't have a buddy with a better test kit i would just wait the recommended time for a new tank, best not to rush anything.

 

[Jritter02]

All the LFS around me use API...I have a few API tests too. I was at a LFS today and thier ammonia test told me I was at 1ppm whiled api test told me 0 30 min later. Not sure what the deal is. Just keep monitoring it