can't wait

[sansouci01]

Well, my cycle looks to be complete...Ammonia is 0ppm, nitrates are 20ppm, but the nitrites have stayed at .25ppm for a few days now. Should I do a water change before adding fish or is 20ppm ok. Also, what about the nitrites. Is that ok for fish or should I wait it out a little longer to see if they go down. I know patience is key with salt water but I'm tired of looking at rock...lol

 

[mr_X]

You have to wait until nitrites are undetectable.

 

[sansouci01]

Thanks Doug.
Already knew that answer with my experience with freshwater tanks but thought someone might have a magical answer for me..lol I might have to get some of those plastic fish attached to strings so my tank doesn't look so lonely..lol

 

[mr_X]

How did you cycle it? What was your ammonia source? Maybe some of that bottled bacteria may help speed things along. I have never used it so I can't comment on it's effectiveness, but some say it works.

 

[sansouci01]

I did the shrimp method....shrimp is still in there by the way...Also used Microbacter7. The cycle is in its 3rd week..

 

[mr_X]

Take the shrimp out now.

 

[sansouci01]

That was going to be my next question...lol

 

[sansouci01]

Boy...that was fun..guess my filter will take care of the shrimp debris floating around now...

 

[mr_X]

I was just gonna type to use a net or something to pick up the carcass...lol.

 

[sansouci01]

yeah...tried the net but it made it worse so I just dug in there. Couldn't get my grand daughter to do it...lol

 

[sansouci01]

Hey Doug.
What type(s) of tank do you have? I have some coral questions if you have a reef tank...

 

[mr_X]

I have a 300 gallon reef with some frag tanks and a big sump attached. What is your question?

 

[sansouci01]

Could I grow some soft corals with the light I have...I see you have seen my other post. Maybe mushrooms or zoanthids

 

[mr_X]

I highly doubt it.

 

[Caliban07]

Place the shrimp in a fine mesh bag next time before adding. Then just whip em out with no mess at the end.