Cycling Process Mistakes?

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blackhorse

Aquarium Advice Apprentice
Joined
Jun 5, 2007
Messages
48
Location
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
I started cycling my tank with dead shrimp about 20 days ago. Not sure if it's relevant but I added 50 lbs of live rock about 10 days ago and then finally 25 lbs of base rock yesterday. I have watched my ammonia levels spike (up to 2 or 3) and now they are at 0. My nitrites are up to 2 now. I think everything is going well.

My question: I was reading someones post tonight that the cycle should be done without the use protein skimmer or filter. I used both of them through the entire process. Should I shut them off now? Will this effect my cycle?

thanks
Tim 8)
 
If the filter has some sort of media that removes ammonia/nitrItes or nitrAtes could give you flalse readings. Judging by your post, it sounds like you are doing great and about finished with your cycle. Once you get 0 readings on ammonia and nitrItes, do a PWC to reduce your nitrAtes and you will be ready for your first critters. I hear some people don't really run their skimmers and others that do. You'll have to wait till one of them posts, since I don't run a skimmer.
 
I agree with Scott that it sounds as if you are doing fine. Since you got your nh3 to 2-3 ppm that's all that's really needed.

As far as not running a skimmer IMO it doesn't hurt either way and gives it time to break in anyways (which can take up to a week).
 
It sounds like everything is doing just fine. I agree that you could be using this time as the break in time for your skimmer.
 
I had mixed advice from people as well. I couldnt choose a side so I ran the skimmer throughout the cycle and it broke the skimmer in. I say go for it. Keep that puppy going.
 
Running the skimmer during the cycle will certainly not hurt anything. You may just not see a huge amount of collection due to the very low DOC level in the tank.
 
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