Cycling concerns...

[Steve S]

40 gallon cube, started the cycle 14 days ago with dry rock, Dr Tim’s, 4 drops ammonium chloride/gal. I still have very high Ammonia and Nitrite levels, pH is at 8.2. Yesterday noticed a slight drop in Ammonia but levels are still very high. My plan is to press on...any thoughts? Thx

 

[Adventures In Reefing]

Keep going it can easily take a month or more to properly cycle. Did you add any live bacteria?

 

[Steve S]

Keep going it can easily take a month or more to properly cycle. Did you add any live bacteria?

Yes, Dr Tim’s. My concern was that they advertise a very fast cycle and I’m a bit old school where I’ve usually waited a few months. Just want to make sure I’m not missing something.

 

[Adventures In Reefing]

Yes, Dr Tim’s. My concern was that they advertise a very fast cycle and I’m a bit old school where I’ve usually waited a few months. Just want to make sure I’m not missing something.

It is faster... But if I were just starting out I would let it cycle for a minimum of 2 months before I stated adding anything I wasn't willing to lose. Your tank can probably support complex life after a month but I guess I would say better safe than sorry. If you rush anything in this hobby you end up regretting it. I might learn that lesson some day.

 

[Steve S]

It is faster... But if I were just starting out I would let it cycle for a minimum of 2 months before I stated adding anything I wasn't willing to lose. Your tank can probably support complex life after a month but I guess I would say better safe than sorry. If you rush anything in this hobby you end up regretting it. I might learn that lesson some day.

I’m with you on that, I’ve always done the same thing. My plan now is to wait until my levels drop then feed every three-four days for a few months then start stocking (very lightly)