Slow to cycle?

[reefkeeper]

Hi All,

I'm rather new to saltwater tanks, and already have been getting mixed ideas/suggestions.

Setup:

115 gal. tank
30 gal. "mud" filter (That's what they told me it is called)
40 Lbs of cured LR (I know I could use some more)

The tank has been running now for about 3~3.5 weeks. I hate to say it but I also have 2 1" damsels in it now. My question is: I have been checking Ammo, nitrite, and nitrate levels every day since about the 5th day. My ammo reading is 0, nitrites are <.05, and nitrates are 0. Salinity is 1.023, and alk is "high".

Am I just not waiting long enough for the readings to change? I thought with the fish I'd get an almost instant spike....

One other thing....My mud filter is bubbling..I hear this is good (?)

Thanks, and sorry for the long post.

Brien

[Kurt]

In a 115 with cured live rock and 2 small 1''damsels it is possible that the spike may not be very high. 2 -1'' damsels will not foul the water up that fast really. I think the Live Rock is maybe working some. Some people use cocktail shrimp to get a faster spike, rotting shrimp will give faster cycle starting. If I were you I would try to add more live rock before I add more fish , that is if you are wanting to put more live rock in some day. More live rock means more stable enviroment for the fish later. Also do you have a sand bed? Now would be the time to add that also. But not neccessary to have. Go slow with this new system seems to be the best advise. I still think you should wait at least 6 to 8 weeks before adding any more fish. Just my experience talking.