Nitrite and Nitrate not reducing... 3 weeks into a cycle

Naz1 · Mar 25, 2020

Hi,

I've cycled my reefer 170 with Dr Tim's all in one and ammonia chloride - it took about the 7 days but my ammonia is down to zero. It's been two more weeks but my nitrite is still 5ppm and nitrates are still 100ppm? Doing an API saltwater test kit.

I haven't introduced any fish yet.. as I'm note sure if they'll survive with high Nitrates (I hear Nitrites is ok for saltwater fish?)

What should I be doing to get ready for my first fish? I've tried a 20% water change but no real effect.

Thanks!

Ding2daDong · Mar 25, 2020

Did you use a premixed salt? Any LR or LS? Just trying to gauge if the system has been seeded with any denitrifying bacteria to actually remove the nitrates and cycle through. I don't know much about Dr. Tims but I don't think you should have such high nitrates at this point.

Seadoc · Mar 25, 2020

Welcome to R2R!!!
The conversion from Nitrites to Nitrates is usually slower while cycling the system than the conversion from Ammonia to Nitrites. You can do a water change to reduce your nitrate levels.

Matt Carden · Mar 25, 2020

After you do a water change, dose the water up to 2ppm Ammonia. Wait 24 hrs and check Ammonia. If it's zero you're probably fine to add first fish.

Hercaluis · Mar 26, 2020

High no

Naz1 said:
Hi,

I've cycled my reefer 170 with Dr Tim's all in one and ammonia chloride - it took about the 7 days but my ammonia is down to zero. It's been two more weeks but my nitrite is still 5ppm and nitrates are still 100ppm? Doing an API saltwater test kit.

I haven't introduced any fish yet.. as I'm note sure if they'll survive with high Nitrates (I hear Nitrites is ok for saltwater fish?)

What should I be doing to get ready for my first fish? I've tried a 20% water change but no real effect.

Thanks!

Nitrites are actually worse for fish than nitrates