Nitrite issue

[JasonAA]

Hi All. I am new and currently cycling a new 120 gallon tank for the past 30 days. I have been reading on the site all about the new tank break in process but have a question about Nitrites. Currently my tank has the following:
PH 7.4
Ammonia .50ppm
Nitrite 1.0ppm
Nitrate 30ppm
Temp 80F

I have 2 mollies and live plants in the tank at the moment. I have done about 5-6 partial water changes (20-40%) during the past 30 days. My question is should I be concerned about the Nitrite levels? They do not seem to be coming down even with water changes. I realize its part of the process and the ammonia doesn't seem to be going higher. Should I do another water change now? My new plants are starting to turn a little brown which is troubling as well. Fish appear to be doing well.

I am using the API testing kit however it becomes a little difficult to see the true levels since the purples on the nitrite are very close. Any suggestions? Thank you.

 

[WIReefer]

It could be testing error API is known for false readings. I would invest in a little better test kits.

 

[JasonAA]

It could be testing error API is known for false readings. I would invest in a little better test kits.

What kit would you suggest?

 

[MaxxuM]

No, nitrites aren't

My question is should I be concerned about the Nitrite levels?

Nope. Not really. Nitrites aren't as concerning as ammonia or nitrates. I rarely even test for it.

I'd go out and buy bacteria though. That ammonia isn't doing your fish any good. Bio-Spira or Stability are fine and will bring down that ammonia within a couple of days.

 

[scabbedwings616]

I would let it go another 30 Days and do no water changes at all. You are still reading ammonia and that’s is a sure sign your tanks no cycled. Be patient and as soon as you see your ammonia go to zero, then you will be better off and almost ready for a water change. Until then, just let the tank go and don’t chase numbers