Tank Nitrogen cycle

[Miamireefs]

Hi
I’m currently doing the cycle with Dr. Tim’s ammonia and bacteria. I’m on my eighth day. I have tested the water every day
My ammonia has gone down from 2 to 1. I haven’t seen a traced of nitrite at all, but since yesterday (my seventh day ) nitrate is going up today it’s at 20 ppm
Could it be possible to go through the cycle without seen a trace of nitrite ??

 

[kharmaguru]

Could it be possible to go through the cycle without seen a trace of nitrite ??

Yes. It's the shortest lived nitrogen form. Your cycle is working!

 

[Miamireefs]

Yes. It's the shortest lived nitrogen form. Your cycle is working!

When Can I be sure the cycle is complete?

 

[kharmaguru]

When Can I sure the cycle is complete?

Ammonia and nitrite stay at zero. It's usually 4-6 weeks but maybe it's quicker the way you are doing it. I've never done it that way, maybe someone else will chime in.

 

[Timfish]

FWIW I haven't had a nitrite test kit in years and can't remember the last time I tested nitrites. Depending on how a ssytem is set up it can be fully cycled on day one or may take longer.

 

[JohnL]

I’m on my eighth day. I have tested the water every day

I think you need more time. I recently cycled a tank using the same method and it took a few weeks.

 

[Sugar Magnolia]

You definitely don't want to rush the cycle. When you have tested 0 for ammonia, nitrite and nitrate, give it at least two to three more weeks to give the beneficial bacteria time to establish. Only then can you slowly introduce quarantined livestock over a period of weeks to months so the tank can adjust to the new bioload. Nothing rushed in this hobby ends in success, slow is the proper way to success.

 

[ChefJoe]

Mother Nature is funny and lighting can strike anytime