Think my tank is cycled?

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J

Joshuakahan

Potamotrygon
MFK Member
Jul 9, 2019
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So I just set up a new 75g about a week ago, I added some cycled media, added two bottles (75g size) of tetra safestart and wrung out one of my other filter pads into my filters. I added the 4 tiny mbuna and a tiny syno 4 days ago and my ammonia just read zero. Unfortunately due to moving, I can’t find my other tests. I’ll grab some more test tomorrow, but I have a small fish order arriving in the AM.
I know it’s impossible to say for sure, but what do you guys think? Is it cycled?
 
You've taken all the right steps to give your new set up a turbo start, and the 0ppm ammonia reading indicates you could be good to go. But.....

It could also mean that your steps haven't worked at all, and that the 0ppm ammonia is due to the tank not even starting it's cycle yet!!!

You really need the nitrite and nitrate tests to confirm without doubt.
 
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esoxlucius said:
You've taken all the right steps to give your new set up a turbo start, and the 0ppm ammonia reading indicates you could be good to go. But.....

It could also mean that your steps haven't worked at all, and that the 0ppm ammonia is due to the tank not even starting it's cycle yet!!!

You really need the nitrite and nitrate tests to confirm without doubt.
Click to expand...
That’s what I figured, I’ve been tearing through my moving boxes looking for my tests, but I guess I’ll have to grab some tomorrow and hope for some nitrates to show lol Fortunately I have more cycled media if needed
Thanks!
 
As esoxlucius has said you have taken the right steps, may be a little rushed. My input would be don't just look for ammonia and nitrate, nitrite is just about as toxic as ammonia. When cycling you need to be testing for all three, as it will give you an insight into the progression of your nitrogen cycle with in your system. In the early stages, test daily or even morning and night until you are confident your tank is cycled. Reach your stocking goals gradually, things can change quite quickly.
All the best
 
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Glen70 said:
As esoxlucius has said you have taken the right steps, may be a little rushed. My input would be don't just look for ammonia and nitrate, nitrite is just about as toxic as ammonia. When cycling you need to be testing for all three, as it will give you an insight into the progression of your nitrogen cycle with in your system. In the early stages, test daily or even morning and night until you are confident your tank is cycled. Reach your stocking goals gradually, things can change quite quickly.
All the best
Click to expand...
Thanks, I’ve added more media and more bacteria and I picked up more tests. Ammonia and nitrites are zero and nitrates are 5ppm, so I believe it’s cycled now
 
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