Cycle Experience

[Schmeff]

I have a 250 gal. tank that I have converted from marine to Fresh with the intent of keeping a harem of Frontosa. I built a styrofaom and cement background, reused the crushed coral sand bed that I had in the marine aquarium (after a good rinse) and built a DIY sump using buckets and bio-balls. My question arises out of the fact that I have not seen a ph spike from the cement like I had expected. It is right at 8.2 and has been for the last 10 days. Has anyone had experience with a situation like this?
I also dropped a few 1 inch fry in the tank to start the cycle and they seem to be doing great and I have seen very little nitrite. Am I rushing it?

 

[Edwardo]

No experience with cement backgrounds, but

I wouldnt be to concerned about not seeing a PH spike, as long as it levels off in the acceptable range, your good.

A few 1 inch fry in 250 gallons of water, sounds like your under doing it.
I would put at least a half dozen fish in at 2 or 3 inches, just to get it going.
jmo Bob

 

[Schmeff]

Thanks for the input. I appreciate your time and knowledge.

 

[manlyfish]

whats a fontasa?

 

[fsc46]

whats a fontasa?