Raw shrimp question

[Remmers]

A friend of mine told me to help kick start the cycle, throw in a piece of raw shrimp.

Well I went and got the shrimp today and threw it in. Only .52 cents, cheapest thing yet LOL


Has anyone else done this?

 

[wooden_reefer]

It is better to finely chop the shrimp to reduce anaerobic activity and give a sharper pulse of ammonia than slow decay.

 

[Remmers]

So can I still take it out and do that or is it to late? Its only been a few hrs?

I know silly question but want to make sure im doing it right.

 

[gone fishin]

I like to put mine in a stocking(pantyhose). Makes it easy to pull the soupy mess out when your done. Good luck

 

[wooden_reefer]

I like to put mine in a stocking(pantyhose). Makes it easy to pull the soupy mess out when your done. Good luck

Why do you want to pull it out?

It is better to calculate the ammonia needed and allow complete ammonification.

 

[wooden_reefer]

So can I still take it out and do that or is it to late? Its only been a few hrs?

I know silly question but want to make sure im doing it right.

No, a few hours will not be enough for significant change.

One small shrimp will give about 3 ppm N-ammonia in 25 gals of water.

 

[gone fishin]

I guess I don't like to calculate. When the ammonia got up to 4 ppm I pulled it out.

 

[wooden_reefer]

I guess I don't like to calculate. When the ammonia got up to 4 ppm I pulled it out.

It may not be a big deal but whole chunks of meat does not allow the best O2 access and may allow anerobic activity.