First time ghost feeding with interesting results

[Dalalen]

So I am starting my 75g tank again I wanted to try ghost feeding this time as the means for the tank cycle. I also used the Purple Helix that contains live bacteria as a means to start the coralline as well. To my surprise, I have been ghost feeding everyday for 7 days now and not once have I measured any trace of Ammonia, Nitrite, or Nitrate. Feeding was done around 7am in the morning and testing was done around 5pm. Is it possible that there was enough live bacteria to support the amount of decay from the ghost feeding? This is my theory.

Another big big surprise was that I also am starting to notice purple coralline specs on the rock. The rock was bleached prior to starting cycle again so i'm very certain these spots were not on the rock. I was for sure that I would not see coralline for at least 4 to 6 weeks.

I am somewhat an intermediate reefer, however, did I just get lucky this time on the cycle and the coralline? I've always detected some kind of toxic water during a startup in the past. What is some other thoughts on these observations. Anyone else suggest what else I need to check?

 

[lazycouch]

maybe try dosing pure ammonia to truly put the bacteria to work and see the results!

 

[Dalalen]

Yes. I ordered some yesterday just to make sure. You and I have good ideas!

 

[MTBake]

I have always used a raw table shrimp to start the cycle. Leave it in for 24-36 hours and remove the carcass. Works every time. No need for the bacteria in a bottle, imo.