Tank Emergency!
- Thread starter Varsity09
- Start date
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Js.Aqua.Project
Reef Addict
Do you have another LFS nearby that tests water with a kit other than API? Taking some water there may be helpful in giving a second opinion, and potentially faster than waiting to order a test kit. I personally know multiple individuals who have tested API and Red Sea ammonia kits side-by-side with API regularly showing higher results than Red Sea.
Other general recommendations:
Other general recommendations:
- I would recommend adding some more rock to the tank, the tanks that I have had the most stability with have all averaged 1-1.5 lbs/gal.
- I use, like, and recommend Dr Tim's One & Only as a great nitrifying bacteria source.
- Until your ammonia reads "0" I would strongly recommend not performing any water changes, if our ammonia levels are elevated like the test shows you need to allow more time for the nitrifying bacteria to establish. If you have to perform one keep it small (1-2 gallons in your system).
- Use RODI water instead of well or dechlorinated tap water.
Brew12
Electrical Gru
Have you had your LFS sample your water? You shouldn't be seeing an ammonia spike. Especially with algae in the tank.
Have you ever added any medications to your tank?
Thanks for the recommendations.
I just purchased 12 pounds of live rock today. So now I will have about 20 pounds of live rock in the tank now.
I can't find Dr. Tim's anywhere, but I just purchased Fritz Zyme 9. Live Nitrifying Bacteria. Removes Ammonia and Nitrites. The LFS said best way to apply is slowly pour it on my bio-wheel.
I have never used Tap water, always RO/DI water.
swensos
Active Member
As mentioned previously, remove the bio wheel. You can keep the rest of the filter for water movement and carbon, but the wheel itself is more trouble than help. Your LFS might still be living in the 90s if they recommend it.
Dump the bacteria into your power head so it spreads over the rocks and sand.
Dump the bacteria into your power head so it spreads over the rocks and sand.
Brew12
Electrical Gru
I wouldn't consider those medications. And neither should interfere with an API ammonia test.
Dom
Full Time Reef Keeper
I purchased a puffer from a LFS back in October. Curiosity got the best of me, so I tested their water. Horrible results! Nitrates were over 160+. My point? Just because your water comes from the LFS, don't assume its perfect.
In my opinion 6 fish is a lot for a 20 gallon even matured. Now add in they were all added in less then 4 months, the biowheel and only 8 pounds of rock I can see why there are issues.
Good job on getting more rock. Take it slow and hopefully it will recover.
Good job on getting more rock. Take it slow and hopefully it will recover.
MnFish1
10K Club member
I’m confused. As someone has already posted. Ammo lock causes positive ammonia readings to persist. Once you’ve used ammo lock you don’t need to keep testing unless things look bad. Ie stressed fish. Etc. the biggest sign that this is a non issue is that the livestock is doing fine. The other thing is that it seems like you are adding stuff too quickly every time you add something you will have a mini cycle. Adding additional live rock has always been a problem for me. It’s best to add all the rock at the startI wouldn't consider those medications. And neither should interfere with an API ammonia test.
Brew12
Electrical Gru
Ammo lock only causes positive ammonia readings if there is actually ammonia present. I asked about medications because copper and a few other meds can cause positive test with no ammonia present. This is why Seachem Alert badges are recommended in QT systems.
I agree that he is moving a little fast, but seeing ammonia this far into a build is still unusual.
Hi Everyone!
Thought I would give an update. I had to empty my tank out, and get new live sand to get rid of the ammonia issue. I am never using AMMO LOCK again. Below are a few pictures now. Been running perfectly since. 0 ammonia 0 nitrites and very little nitrates. Coral has opened up nicely and even growing! Fish are doing great! Thanks for all the help!
Now off to vacation to Florida for two weeks!
Thought I would give an update. I had to empty my tank out, and get new live sand to get rid of the ammonia issue. I am never using AMMO LOCK again. Below are a few pictures now. Been running perfectly since. 0 ammonia 0 nitrites and very little nitrates. Coral has opened up nicely and even growing! Fish are doing great! Thanks for all the help!
Now off to vacation to Florida for two weeks!
