Testing Amonia,Nitrate, Nitrites while cycling

Hi guys,

Quick question... Is it ok for me to just test for Amonia while I Cycle my tank?

I figure since the first thing to show up is Amonia (at least to my knowledge), testing for Nitrates / Nitrites might not make sense if Amonia is still reading 0.

What do you guys think?

P.S. This is FOWLR

 

I would test for all 3. It will give you a better idea as to where you are in your cycle. Also, if your ammonia is reading 0 it doesn't mean you cycle is done, just that the bacteria are converting it into nitrite and nitrate. It's important to monitor the nitrate levels during your cycle too, they are a better indicator as to the progress of your tank.

 

For sure test for it, lets you see what a cycle looks like, even though cycles are all different.

 

It's only been 3 days since my tank has been set up and I was getting readings of 0 thats why I figured my cycle has not yet even started...

I just thought the first to show was Amonia, and once that shows the others will follow and start testing all 3 once I see the first signs of Amonia...

But I will test all three if that is the general consensus...

Thanks for the info, not trying to take any shortcuts, was just curious if Nitrites / trates would show up until amonia...

 

Have you added anything that would provide a source of ammonia? A lot of people use a piece of shrimp for a few days. Are you using live rock or dry rock?

 

80 lbs of base rock and sand... added Nutrafin Cycle to help start the bacteria... Should I go out and get a piece of shrimp and add it to the tank or sump or just wait?

 

I went the dead shrimp route. It got things funky right quick and started the cycle moving. I dropped one piece of LR in from an existing tank as well.

 

This is probably a dumb question but since I am vegetarian, I have no clue how to order shrimp or what kind of shrimp I need... Any advice on what to ask for at my local Shop Rite?

 

Doesnt really matter, as long as something in their is decomposing and adding ammonia it will kick things off! Just don't leave it in their for too long, only until ammonia shows up!

 

You can use just plain old fish food as well.