Nitrification cycle question

[Hairy_Harold]

Is it possible to have nitrates, no nitrites and ammonia? I got through a cycle without an ammonia tester and no fish death. So I was wondering if I actually need one after the cycle has completed? Obviously don't want to harm my fish it's been 2 weeks since i've done a water change and my nitrate levels have been 20ppm since the last water change and major gravel vac (my levels were shafted before that).

 

[buddha_red]

Yes its possible to have nitrates and no nitrites or ammonia. You will need to do another water change. Nitrates are reduced by water changes. weekly water changes are best but every two weeks is minimum. make sure to clean your filter media when you do your changes.

 

[Hairy_Harold]

I'm not worried about my nitrate levels I am wondering that after having a filter cycled is there a possiblity of there being detectable ammonia.

 

[buddha_red]

Your nitrites and ammonia should read zero after the cycle is complete

 

[Hairy_Harold]

Thank you for your patience. So I am right in guessing they will never raise if the filter is copping with the bio load of the fish tank and is maintained?

 

[Hairy_Harold]

Double post

 

[buddha_red]

yes if the tank is cycled, properly stocked and maintained by good cleaning you should never see ammonia. I feel you should always have the big three test kits though. Ammonia, nitrites and nitrates. I test my ammonia occasionaly to make sure everything is running correctly.

 

[Hairy_Harold]

I was just worrying myself as I keep stocking my tank that's all. I guess better safer to ask the question then sorry.

 

[marchmaxima]

if you plan to add fish more fish, then the introduction of the new fish will add to the load and you *may* get an increase in ammonia until the bacteria catches up. Tis why ppl only recommend increasing numbers slowly.

Buy the test kits. There's so many reasons to have them around and no reason not to. If something goes wrong down the track, it's the first thing you'll need at your disposal.