Cycling question

ryanreefer · Oct 10, 2020

Hello everyone, I need some advice. I started my first salt water tank and used Fritz turbo 900 about 5 days ago, but forgot to add an ammonia source to feed my bacteria. Should I add a dead shrimp now? or just let it be?

Ammonia 0.50ppm, Nitrite 0.25ppm, Nitrate 20ppm

dreamcatcherr9 · Oct 10, 2020

You need some type of ammonia source. That source can vary. I’d use a hardy live fish like a clown. Some use bottled ammonia. Some use dead fish, shrimp or food.

Reefing_Engineer · Oct 10, 2020

The bacteria can live without a food source for a while, since they can be bottled, but you should definitely add an ammonia source so the population can grow like dreamcatcher said. I would regiment ghost feeding or a shrimp like you said!

dreamcatcherr9 · Oct 10, 2020

And just curious. Did you use a “bagged” live sand? What type of rocks (dry / live)? Those will effect cycle. You’re off to a good start. Have fun!

Mr. Fishy Fish · Oct 10, 2020

+1 on both the previous posts. Except I personally wouldn't add a hardy fish until I have zero ammonia and nitrites. The ammonia and nitrites will harm your fish no matter how hardy it is.

K7BMG · Oct 10, 2020

ATI test kit?
Tank volume
Substrate type and volume?

I do not like fish in cycling it can be cruel to the fish.
Most new tank owners cant recognize the symptoms of a fish in distress.

I would purchase some ammonia and add it to the tank untill you reach 1.0ppm.
This will show clearly on the ammonia test. Then leave it alone.
Test periodically and watch for ammonia to drop and turn into Nitrite, then watch it drop and turn into Nitrate.
Should take 14 to 21 days from the addition of the Amonia.