After almost 3 weeks of cycling I finally got a trace of nitrites this morning. Im using the pure ammonia cycling method. I started out with just 10-15 shiners and then was introduced to the pure ammonia method. Let me tell you shiners are a good cycle fish. I spiked this tank up to about 6ppm of pure ammonia and it didnt slow them down one bit. They act as if they arent even phased by it. From now on though I will not use fish for a cycle. This ammonia method is the ticket. If done properly you can get an insane bio base.
I also acquired a Ranco controler for the three x 500w titanium heaters running in the sump. Works like a charm. Didnt take long at all to heat the tank and it maintains temperature very well.
Only thing I have left is waiting on the nitrite portion of the cycle to run its course, big water change, and add fish. Cant wait! The water is still stained from the driftwood leaching tannins but im sure that will clear up after several weeks of water changes have passed.
Heres a few shots of the setup, and a couple updated shots of its soon to be residents
I also acquired a Ranco controler for the three x 500w titanium heaters running in the sump. Works like a charm. Didnt take long at all to heat the tank and it maintains temperature very well.
Only thing I have left is waiting on the nitrite portion of the cycle to run its course, big water change, and add fish. Cant wait! The water is still stained from the driftwood leaching tannins but im sure that will clear up after several weeks of water changes have passed.
Heres a few shots of the setup, and a couple updated shots of its soon to be residents
