Any suggestions??

[kdrake]

Ive had the tank setup for about 4 weeks now. I used cured LR from the lfs. 2 clowns were put in the tank 2 weeks ago. I have tested the water regularly since setting up the tank.

I put a protein skimmer in the sump 5 days ago. It is now starting to skim a little.

I tested the water today and my levels were a little elevated Nitrite( a little under .25), Ammonia levels (.25) and nitrate (5.0). Also my PH was low at about 8.0. I was contemplating a WC of 20%. Could the Protein skimmer have anything to do with this.

Any advice would be appreciated

 

[XXFirefighter]

Did you have a cycle?
If not this is the start of your cycle...
Skimmer has nothing to do with it..

 

[Fluff]

I agree it sounds like your tank is cycling. I would go ahead with the waterchange since you have fish in there.

 

[kdrake]

Tested the nitrites again and were back to normal. This time I used water from the main tank versus water from the sump.

Any comments??

 

[lando]

Sounds like your tank is still cycleing and a bit unstable. Since you have two clowns in there I would just do a water change. It may prolong your cycle but your fish will appreciate you for it.