New to reefing-ammonia test results

hey.al · Jan 20, 2021

Hi,

I am new to this whole thing. I have a biocube 32 with the intank filtration system. I feel as if my ammonia is constantly at .25 or just below even after a 5 gallon water change. It is not 0, but not quite at .25 either. I have attached some photos. Hopefully the lighting makes it look as accurate as it does in person. My nitrite is always 0, nitrate is also 0, and ph is 8. Did I make in error in cycling my tank possibly? Do I need to continue to do 5 gallon water changes weekly? Should I add something to lower the ammonia? Or am I being to critical and it is at a safe level? Any advice helps.

Reef. · Jan 20, 2021

Is that an API kit? If so tends to read .25 even when zero.

if unsure either get your LFS to check, or I believe the Seachem ammonia kit gives a yes/no result for ammonia, rather than a grade of how much ammonia you have so may be a better option.

brandon429 · Jan 20, 2021

I've seen api report even slightly darker green than that and we all agree it's a baseline error.

Irony: that's pretty darn yellow. Most jealously wish they could get it that yellow

TrevorL · Jan 20, 2021

That’s fine it should mean your ammonia is at 0. I use API too and mine always shows that and I got my water tested recently at a lfs and it was at 0. If your nitrates rise a little don’t be concerned it’s good to have some nitrate in the tank just try and keep ammonia and nitrite at 0 or as close to it as possible!