Cycling

Misha · Mar 18, 2019

Hello all

I'm new to this forum, just like reef tanks. I have experience with freshwater tanks.
I have started 5 days ago with cycling my tank. I started with dry rock and new sand. I am adding Colombo Bacto Start and a few pellets as ammonia source. I don't have an ammonia or nitrite tester as the store said: nitrate tester is enough. I doubt that and will buy an ammonia tester this week.
Today I have tested the nitrate and the result is: 2.5ppm. According to my research nitrate is only present after more days? What are the best things I can do to know where I am in the cycle?

More info:
Blue marine REEF 60 (15 gallon)

KJ · Mar 18, 2019

Welcome to R2R!!!
https://www.reef2reef.com/threads/the-supreme-guide-to-setting-up-a-saltwater-reef-aquarium.138750/

Misha · Mar 18, 2019

Thanks! I've red that post it's very clear. So I'm in the "nitrate stage" is this possible this quick? Next steps are the algae stages so I need to turn the light on from now?

dansreef · Mar 18, 2019

Welcome to R2R!

A wise reefer told me early on... many years ago... "GO SLOW"... It is something that is tough to do when setting up a new tank. It seemed everytime I ignored that sage advice... I would lose money, fish and corals... It can be costly. Make sure you give your tank and the cycle enough time to run its course. Also, as you start adding...anything.... go slow. Nothing in saltwater....and reefing in general should be done quickly. R2R is a great resource for you. A lot of really great people. Wished I had it when I first got in. I would have saved a ton of $$$$$$'s.

Good Luck!

Misha · Mar 18, 2019

Haha, I am going to do it slow and wait for 3/4 weeks before adding anything. But I found it strange that there was already nitrate at day 5 as most websites say that nitrates comes a few days later.

monkeyCmonkeyDo · Mar 18, 2019

U can google img the cycle of a marine tank. I think it starts to stable out after 90 or 180 days...
I'm not turing my new tanks lights on until the coral needs it or is in the tank. I guess to feed the fish a lil or every now and again. LOL
-d