first water change

[ct67_72]

so my tank has been up an running for a few weeks not. I used turbo start to short cycle it. I think this is either the 2nd or third week it has been running and evrything has been great, as of right now the tests are as follows;
nitrate about 20 ppm nitrite about .5 ppm hardness about 100-110 alkalinity/buffering about 80 and ph 6.8-7, the alkalinity seems to be getting lower.
I have 3 angel fish, 2 fairly small and one fairly large. 3 platties, one male betta, 2 ghost shrimp, a clown loach and a cory. should I be doing the first water change now? and does all of this seem in line.

just to ad, I have been doing this for a while and have had good success with all my tanks, and considered my self semi knowledgeable, but you guys blow me away. and I take everyones opinion and advise seriously and hope to better my self from it. Thanks. Dan

 

[Zagz]

Doing a water change would be a good idea IMO. Nitrites of 0ppm are the ideal condition.

Any pics of your tanks and fish?

 

[Fishyfanatic]

Are you using the test strips? By the results that you gave, it seems likely. Have you tested for Ammonia?

 

[ct67_72]

yeah I have the 5 in one test strips. Im trying to get a digital camera to get some pics. hopefully soon Im pretty proud of what I have so far.

 

[Fishyfanatic]

I don't take much stock in the strips. You need to get a liquid reagent test kit. They are cheaper and more accurate. At this point you need to test for Ammonia. Can you go to a lfs and have them test your water qith a reagent kit? If not, you may want to try buying one.

 

[tropicfishman]

yeah ya may wanna stear away from the strips they can go bad just from opening the lid a bunch of times, apperently the reagent meets with moisture in the air and makes them invalid, happened to me

 

[ct67_72]

well goo dto know, Ill get a new master test kit