end of cycle traces of nitrates

Discussion in 'Water Chemistry' started by SELENAD, Mar 2, 2008.

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  1. SELENAD

    SELENAD Plankton

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    i was wondering im on my 6 week of cycling and a did a test. all came out great except for nitrates were ranging between 20.0 - 10.0 ppm. is this normal or should i go ahead and hook up protein skimmer, only a little bit of LR is in there.
     
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  3. lunatik_69

    lunatik_69 Giant Squid

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    IMO, your still cycling, remember that cycling could last up to 3 months(12 weeks) Your done cycling when your levels are at 0(NH3, NO2, and NO3)
     
  4. phoenixhieghts

    phoenixhieghts Panda Puffer

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    thats normal to be fair - nitrate is the end result of the nitrogen cycle, and the only way to really get rid of it is to hook up an expensive denitrator or do a water change.
    I think you'd be alright to add a nice hardy fish in there :)
     
  5. sssnake

    sssnake Montipora Digitata

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    Quite normal. Sounds like you're finishing your cycle.

    No need for a skimmer just yet as there is really nothing in there to skim :).

    See if you can wait a little more for the nitrates to come down a bit and you're good to go. If stocking your tank with fish don't introduce more than one or two at the start, and try and place the most territorial fish last.

    Good luck :)
     
  6. omard

    omard Gnarly Old Codfish

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    Normal with newly cycled tank.

    Nothing a couple good sized back to back water changes won't take care.

    Keep close eye on for next few months, your biofilter is still quite young/weak yet.

    Good Luck!


    Water Changes/Exchanges, Anthony Calfo
     
  7. reef_guru

    reef_guru Humpback Whale

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    the ANN cycle is continous. daily feedings start the ANN cycle. if your tank is new check for NH3,4 if thats 0 then the main portion of "cycling" is done. then check NO2 if thats close to 0 then your almost done. NO3 under 20ppm should have little effect on livestock, but as close to 0 is prefered

    ANN cycle:
    (NH3,4) turns into (NO2) that turns into (NO3)
    (ammonia) turns into (nitrite) that turns into (nitrate)
     
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  9. SELENAD

    SELENAD Plankton

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    Hi Yall

    Thanks For The Info8)