Beginner

[Bonordy]

Wondering how long it takes to cycle the take? I have a 55 gallon tank with about 1" live sand and about 45 pounds live rock.

 

[Hondatek]

If you went all live rock it can take as little as 2 weeks. Break out the test kit and see what you got. Then dose some ammonia and see how long it takes to turn into trites then trates.

 

[carey]

Hi. Welcome to the forum!!

have you introduced an ammonia source yet to start the cycle?

Also, you will need a test kit for the water to follow the cycle along, API makes a very good one for like $25.

 

[Bonordy]

I have got a clown and valetini puffer.

 

[Hondatek]

Doesn't sound like ideal situation right now. How long has the tank been setup and what are the results of an up to date water test?

 

[Bonordy]

It has been set up for about 4 weeks. Live rock and live sand have been in for about 2 weeks. Just got the fish Sunday. All tests show tolerable levels.

 

[mr_X]

When you put the rock in the tank the cycle started. I have a feeling you are in for trouble. How many fish did you buy, and what size tank is this?

 

[mr_X]

What are the tolerable levels? What is showing on your test kit?

 

[Bonordy]

Only bought to small fish. Ph is 8.2. Ammonia is .25 or lower. Nitrate is 0-5.0. Nitrite is less than .25.

 

[Bonordy]

Tank size is 55 gallons.

 

[mr_X]

Any detectable ammonia is toxic. you are still in your cycle.

 

[Bonordy]

So what do you advise?

 

[mr_X]

Take the fish out and cycle the tank.
You have to add an ammonia source, and then wait for that to be changed to nitrite, and then nitrate, then do a water change to lower the nitrate, then add fish. This way is just torturing the fish.
Some folks add fish as an ammonia source, and hope for the best. I find this method a bit cruel.

 

[carey]

Take the fish out and cycle the tank.
You have to add an ammonia source, and then wait for that to be changed to nitrite, and then nitrate, then do a water change to lower the nitrate, then add fish. This way is just torturing the fish.
Some folks add fish as an ammonia source, and hope for the best. I find this method a bit cruel.

++1

It's not necessary to use fish anymore to cycle knowing what we do now. I concur with Mr X on this one. Get the fish out and cycle the tank THEN get your fish.

 

[Bonordy]

Couldn't I do frequent water changes?

 

[Bonordy]

Also, how long will the cycle take?

 

[redsea]

Welcome!

The cycle time is usually varied depending on your situation, there really isn't a specific time set in stone.

 

[Bonordy]

So how do I know the cycle is done?

 

[Jeffrock]

you will know when the cycle is done after you monitor the ammonia level, then you will get nitrites, then you will get nitrates and then you do a large waterchange. then you can test by introducing ammonia and seeing if it turns to zero within 24 hours then your cycle will be complete.

 

[mr_X]

If you do frequent water changes, you are interrupting the cycle. It's best to remove the fish. What fish did you buy?