how much is too much when cycling?

[Lauren]

I hate setting up new tanks, I forget everything before starting up the new tank. I just took readings on my brackish tank, and I'm worried that the numbers may be too high for cycling. Is that possible.

My test reads:
1ppm ammonia
between .50-1ppm nitrite
40ppm nitrate

Seems like quite the toxic brew right there, I don't want to kill off my bacteria, should I do a water change, or are the numbers within reason for a fishless cycle?

 

[cherrypie]

All fine there for fishless cycle, keep in mind that nitrifying bacteria are a major part of wastewater treatment (ie. they'll survive in well oxygenated sewerage).

How long have you been doing a fishless cycle for? The figures there would indicate you're already getting a fairly healthy bacterial population.

Personally I'd change out a bit of water (add a bit more ammonia if you're continuing to cycle) and try get the nitrates down towards 10ppm, just so you don't have to deal with huge levels (and associated huge water changes) when it comes time to add fish.