Nitrafying Bacteria

So I had been using DGS Colonize since conception, and two weeks ago I ran out. Thinking I was all set, I did not buy any more.

All along, my AM, N2, M3 have been 0. Never saw more than a trace of Nitrates. After testing water today, my Nitrites were .02 and Nitrates were 20.

I went out and picked up some Tropic Science Nitro-Max and added the dose. Hopefully I can get back to 0 again.

Anyway, I always doubted this stuff, but after this I guess I am a believer..

I will do a 15 gallon change this coming weekend ayway.


Cheers

 

I've never used any bacteria other than what came in on livesand or rock along with a damsel to start my cycle. It's not something you should need to add either. Just let the tank's mini-cycle happen and run its course. Then you'll only have enough bacteria you need to support your tank bioload and no more. What ever else you are buying and adding to supplement bacteria is a waste.

 

Not too mention 99.9% of the bacteria in those bottles are dead. All you are really adding is very strong detoxifier (think Prime).

 

Well, all I can say is that my numbers were 0 until I stopped using it. Tank is well matured and changed much in awhile. Suppose I could let it run it's course and see what happens, but I dont like seeing the numbers go up I guess.


Cheers

 

I'm with bogie and pack on this, I've never used any type of Bottled Nitrafying Bacteria in any of my tanks and just let time/nature take it's course.

Save some money and ride out the mini cycle.

Cat4wisson

 

To make the mini-cycle less severe, you could also just reduce the amount you are normally dosing down to zero over time. That way, the nitrites won't rise up to high numbers quick and have a bad effect (or possibly kill if the levels are high enough) delicate coral or fish.

 

Why are we saying that i am in a mini cycle?
The only thing I have done in a month is stop using the colonize

I did just find a dead crab but that shouldn't cause such a spike

Thanks

 

Because if you have nitrites present you are in the midst of a cycle. Did you check ammonia?

 

I guess I wouldnt have expected a cycle mini or otherwise without doing at least some change.

AM = 0
Slight Nitrite .02 and 20 Nitrate

 

Well, Here is what I know.
I stopped using Colonize. 2 weeks later my Nitrate was detectable where it had been 0.
I got the new stuff and added it, after a week, I am back to 0.

Live or Memorex.... May be a coincidence, but I am at 0 again.

Cheers