Nitrite levels will generally rise quickly and then suddenly fall. Once ammonia levels start to drop, begin testing for nitrites while continuing to test for ammonia. Ammonia Test: Test daily until ammonia levels start to drop.However, we recommended waiting to add coral for at least several weeks until bacteria levels stabilize. It is generally safe to add a small amount of fish right. Timeline: In as little as 24 hours, although it generally takes a little longer.ĭrawbacks: Bacteria levels may not be stable, resulting in increases in both ammonia and nitrite. These products work quickly and can have your tank ready in little time. Some of the most popular products include Fritz Turbostart, Dr. Once you start to detect nitrites, reduce this to 3 drops a day.ĭrawbacks: Takes time Option 3: Bacteria Starterīottled nitrifying bacteria cycle is the fastest way to cycle an aquarium. As a general rule of thumb, we recommend 5 drops for every 10 gallons of tank water. Alternatively, pure ammonia, which does not contain any perfumes or detergents or surfactants, can be added. As the fish food or shrimp decomposes, it will create ammonia. To start the process, you will need to add an ammonia source such as fish food or a chunk of shrimp. Timeline: At least 3 weeks and likely up to 6 weeksĭrawbacks: Takes time and you may end up with a fish or two you don’t want Option 2: Without Fish However, damsels, chromis, and even clownfish can be aggressive to other fish, especially in smaller tanks. Many people prefer to use damsels, chromis, or clownfish because they are readily available, hardy, and cheap. One or two small fish is all you will need for most small to medium-sized tanks. However, it needs to be done with caution as ammonia and nitrite reach toxic levels, which can kill even hardy fish. Option 1: With FishĬycling a tank using a fish is probably the most common method of cycling an aquarium. Before starting the process, please make sure you have ammonia, nitrite and nitrate tests, as these will be used regularly throughout the cycling process. The three most common methods for cycling a reef aquarium are (1) With Fish, (2) Without Fish, and (3) Bacteria Starter. Regular water changes, combined with protein skimmers and other filtration methods, are then used to keep nitrate levels in check. Additional bacteria then break the nitrite down into even less toxic nitrate. The nitrogen cycle is the process in which bacteria convert ammonia into less toxic nitrite. In this article, we will go over what the nitrogen cycle is and how to cycle a saltwater aquarium. Before adding any livestock to a new aquarium, you must cycle the tank to ensure a safe environment for all fish and corals. The excitement is there and all you want to do is throw some sand, rocks, water, fish, and coral in, sit back and enjoy. You’ve finally decided to dive into getting your first aquarium.
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