Another cycle question

[garyroach]

A little over 4 weeks ago I began a fishless cycle. For 2 1/2 weeks it just sat there with 5ppm of ammonia. So I did a 50% water change and immediately started seeing high levels of nitrites and nitrates. I add a little ammonia every day and I'm still seeing high levels of nitrites and nitrates. Anything I can do to complete the cycle? Thanks.

Gary

[chunkoblue]

All you can do is wait... aeration may help the process go a little quicker. I also raised the temp to 82-84 degrees.

[garyroach]

All you can do is wait... aeration may help the process go a little quicker. I also raised the temp to 82-84 degrees.

I have an air pump going through a couple fake rocks and it's been "cooking" at 80 degrees.

But, like Cheech said, "I'm tired of waiting. If she doesn't hurry up..............I'll have to wait some more."

[jm1212]

if you are seeing nitrites and nitrates, chances are the cycle is almost done.

[garyroach]

if you are seeing nitrites and nitrates, chances are the cycle is almost done.

WooHoo! I hope you are correct , sir!

I expected to just see nitrites when I finally did see bacteria. But, I actually got readings for both the same day and the readings have remained high for both. Haven't done any water changes since the 50% one that seemed to give the bacteria a chance to grow.

Unfortunately, the older I get, the less patience I have. :grinno:

[Rbishop]

Can you get some established media from someone...?

[garyroach]

Can you get some established media from someone...?

I could have used some when I was waiting for something to start eating the ammonia. But, it looks like the bacteria is doing fine. Ammonia is reduced to zero daily. I'm waiting on the bacteria that eats nitrites and produces nitrates to reduce the nitrites on a daily basis, then I'll be good to go after a water change. But, whatever the bacteria is that produces nitrates is definitely there and in abundance. If i understand this stuff correctly. :rolleyes: