New tank cycling

[Brad G.]

Hello everybody!

I am new to reefing and want everybody’s input on my tank cycling process. I have a 75G DT and 34G Sump. My tank began cycling two weeks ago. I used live sand, dry rock, a bottle of bio spira and 2 chromis. I am using API test kits. I only saw any type of ammonia the day after I began the cycle but since then I have only been getting right around the infamous .25 API reading. I have not seen any nitrites and my nitrates are hanging around 10ppm. I had what appeared to be diatoms show up about a few days ago on the rocks and sand which are lightening up. I am now getting green film algae on the rocks, sand and glass. I have not added any new livestock. I planned on taking a water sample into my LFS within the next for days for a water test. I am just curious to know where you guys think I am at in my cycling process. I am kinda leaning towards it may be time for a small CUC but wanted input first.

 

[Qasimja]

you look to me to be cycled if you have nitrates and 0 nitrites if you have nitrates they have to be consuming nitrites no?

 

[Brad G.]

you look to me to be cycled if you have nitrates and 0 nitrites if you have nitrates they have to be consuming nitrites no?

Yea that’s the same thing I was thinking. It’s just all soo new to me

 

[jaxredsoxfan]

I agree 0 nitrites and above 0 nitrates indicates it has cycled. I would likely introduce some small amounts of food and monitor for a bit longer to ensure the bacteria population is growing. Then add a small cleanup crew

 

[reef lover]

Welcome to r2r!